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PEIMARY HISTORY 



OF THE 



UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 



BY EGBEKT GUEKI^SEY. 



U 



hi>^' 



NEW YOKK : 

PUBLISHED BY DANIEL BURGESS &l CO. 

60 JOHN STREET. 

1854. 



Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the Year One Thousand Eight Hundred 
and Fifty-three, by EGBERT GUERNSEY, in the Clerk's Office of the District 
Court of the United States, for the Southern District of New York. 






This book is intended for you. It is your own little 
*' History of the United States." In it you will find 
many interesting stories, not only about those who lived 
several hundred years ago, but about many persons with 
whom your parents or grand-parents are acquainted or 
have seen. All these stories are true, and we hope you 
will try and remember them. 

We shall tell you about the early discovery of this 
country when it was a vast wilderness, and no one lived 
here but Indians. You will then see how rapidly the 
wilderness has passed away and given place to cultivated 
fields and beautiful towns and great cities. We shall tell 
you of the sufferings, which the people of this country 
endured during the long and bloody war of the Eevolu- 
tion, in which our liberties were obtained. As you con- 
trast their sufferings and the hardships they endured with 



IV PREFACE. 



the present peace, prosperity, and happiness of the coun- 
try, you can better appreciate the great blessings we 
enjoy. 

You will see, in the lives of many of the men about 
whom we shall speak, a purity, patriotism, and strict in- 
tegrity of character, you will do well to imitate. In the 
whole history of the past, you will see how God has 
watched over us and blessed us, and that if we would be 
prosperous and happy, we must look to Him for aid and 
protection. 

With a fervent hope that in these pages you may not 
only be amused but instructed, and that in your life you 
may imitate some of the glorious examples recorded in 
the history of our country, we shall ever remain your 
sincere friend, 



€\)t Ml)m, 




©®K]¥[iLi^¥ 



PAGE. 

Preface , 3 



f nrt l^irst. 



CHAPTER I. 
Discoveries of the Northmen. — Christopher Columbus. — His early 
history, discoveries, and death 11 

CHAPTER II. 
History of the Indians 22 

CHAPTER III. 
Discoveries of different Navigators 28 

CHAPTER IV. 
Expeditions of Sir Humphrey Gilbert and Sir Walter Raleigh 33 

CHAPTER V. 
Virginia. — Settlement. — Captain John Smith 35 

CHAPTER VI. 
New York 40 

CHAPTER VII. 
Massachusetts. — The Puritans 43 



VI CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER VIII. PAGE. 
Connecticut 40 

CHAPTER IX 
New Hampshire. — Rhode Island 53 

CHAPTER X. 
Settlement of the Middle and Southern Colonies. — New Jersey, Dela- 
ware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, South Carolina, 
and Georgia 65 

CHAPTER XI. 
Indian Wars. — King Philip's War. — King William's War. — Queen 



Anne's War. 



CHAPTER XII. 
French and Indian War 67 

CHAPTER XIII. 
Causes of the American Revolution 71 

CHAPTER XIV. 
Causes of the Revolution, continued 74 

CHAPTER XV. 
Stamp Act - 77 

CHAPTER XVI. 
Causes of the Revolution, continued 82 

CHAPTER XVn. 
Causes of the Revolution, continued - 89 

CHAPTER XVIII. 
Battle of Lexington 92 



CONTENTS. 


vii 


CHAPT ER XIX. 
Battle of Bunker Hill 


PAGE. 

.. 95 


CHAPTER XX. 
Preparations for War. 


-.101 


^^art kmt 




CHAPTER I. 




Declaration of Independence ........ 


..105 


CHAPTER II. 




War of the Revolution.— Battles of Long Island — White Plains 
Trenton — Princeton 


..109 


CHAPTER III. 




Battles of Brandy wine — Germantown — Saratoga. — Lafayette 


-.117 


CHAPTER IV. 




Treaty between France and America. — Battle of Monmouth 


..121 


CHAPTER V. 
Naval Contests 


-.125 


CHAPTER VI. 
Battle of Camden . — Treason of Arnold 


..131 


CHAPTER VII. 




Battle of Cowpens. — Eutaw Springs. — Surrender of Cornwallis 
Yorktown.— Close of the War 


at 
..138 



VIU CONTENTS, 



fart €]}ixt 



CHAPTER I. PAGE. 
Washington elected President 147 

CHAPTER II. 
Jefferson's Administration 152 

CHAPTER III. 
Madison's Administration, — War with Great Britain 155 

CHAPTER IV. 
V/ar Continued 160 

CHAPTER V. 
Monroe's Administration. — Lafayette's Visit 169 

CHAPTER VI. 
Administrations of J. Q Adams, Jackson, and Van Buren 173 

CHAPTER VII. 
Administrations of Harrison and Tyler 179 

CHAPTER VIII. 
Administrations of Polk, General Taylor, and Fillmore. — War with 

Mexico 183 

Conclusion 198 






jjOjaTCJMS-l^ 



/<■ 



GETS have told us of a 
winged horse called Pegasus, 
which could fly through the 
air with a rapidity far exceed- 
ing that of the swiftest bird. 
When they wished to visit 
^^^ distant lands, they had only to 
mount Pegasus, give him the 
reins, and away he would fly, over oceans and mountains, 
almost with the velocity of thought. 

Tliis horse was wild and restless, and played strange pranks 
witli those who attempted a ride. Only a few could guide 

1* 



'*-v 



10 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

liim, yet, like inferior horses, he had a fondness for children, 
and with them would be as gentle as a lamb. 

I need not tell my young friends, that God has given each 
one of them something, which can soar higher, and fly more 
swiftly than the winged horse of the ancient poets. He has 
given them thought — imagination^ the power of bringing dis- 
tinctly before the mind scenes and friends however distant. 

You have often allowed your thoughts to wander far 
away. In imagination, while seated quietly at home, or 
lying in bed, you have visited distant friends, or your 
thoughts have gone back, and brought fresh before you, the 
prominent scenes of your past life. Perhaps your thoughts 
have flown away into the future, and you have imagined 
what you would do when you were no longer a child. 

ISTow, in imagination, we are about to commence a long 
journey. We shall go back into the past hundreds of years, 
visit distant lands, cross great oceans, high mountains, and 
wander through dark forests. We shall go back to that 
time when this whole country was a vast wilderness, its very 
existence even unknown by the nations of Europe, from 
whom we are nearly all descended. 

We shall first mingle with the wild men of this wild land, 
and then, as we advance, step by step, shall witness the land- 
ing of the first white men on our shores, the formation of 
villages, of towns and cities ; the struggle of a young nation 
for freedom ; the commencement of our great republic — its 
glorious progress — until it now numbers twenty millions of 
people ! What a magnificent journey. 



CHAPTEE I 




OUR hundred years ago, people living in 
Europe and Asia did not know there was 
a great continent across the blue Atlantic 
Ocean. Even kings and learned men, at 
that time, knew less about Geography than 
is known by many of the poorest children at the 
present day. Tlie wisest sailors were afraid to ven- 
ture far from land. They thought a belt of heat, 
which no one could pass, surrounded the earth 
at the equator. 

If I ask almost any intelligent child how wide the At- 
lantic Ocean is, I will be promptly answered, " Three thou- 
sand miles ;" but, four hundred years ago, no one knew any- 
thing about the boundary of this ocean. Navigators were 
afraid of its " haughty winds," " mighty fishes," and " fre- 
quent tempests." 

2. But there were a few bold men, living in the northern 
countries of Europe, and therefore called the JN'orthmen, 



1, Did Europeans know, four hundred years ago, there was a continent 
across the Atlantic 1 Why were the sailors afraid to venture far from 
land 1 How wide is the Atlantic Ocean 1 

2. When were the Northmen driven out to sea 1 Where did they land 1 



12 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

who, about the latter part of the tenth century, had been 
driven out to sea by stormy winds — they knew not how many 
miles — and finally landed on what is now known as the Ame- 
rican coast. It is supposed they wandered along the coast 
from the bleak shore of Labrador as far south as Khode 
Island* and Connecticut. 

3. Many suppose they attempted to form settlements in 
this region. Yery little was ever known about these wan- 
derers or their discoveries. Centuries rolled away, and their 
perilous voyages were only spoken of in the songs of their 
bards. For more than five hundred years after the landing 
of the Northmen. America was an unknown region. 

4. Tlie landing of the Northmen is supposed to have been 
in the latter part of the tenth or the beginning of the 
eleventh century. People living at that time were very 
ignorant, and that age is spoken of as the Darlc Age. But 
God was bringing about causes which were soon to cast a 
flood of light on the dark minds of men. 

5. After this, about the year 1450, the art of printing was 

3. How far did they wander ? Is much known about these wanderers \ How 
long after the landing of the Northmen was America an unknown region ? 

4. What was this age called ? 

5. When was printing invented ? What did mariners ascertain by sailing 
south ? 

* It is generally believed that the " Old Toicer " at Newport was erected by 
the Northmen as a baptistry for a church. The Northmen were nominal Chris- 
tians. The architecture of this " Old Tower " was a style common to the north 
of Europe, from the eighth to the twelfth century. 



CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 13 

invented, and people began to be more intelligent. Mariners 
ventured by degrees farther and farther south, until they 
found out there was no belt of heat at the equator, which 
was imj)assable. 

6. At length they reached the southern extremity of Africa, 
which, in their joy, they called the Cajpe of Good Hope. Mer- 
chants had for a long while been hoping that some safe and 
short passage by sea, to the rich lands of the Indies, would be 
discovered. They thought the Cape of Good Hope would 
lead to the long wished-for passage. 

Y. Goods from India had to be carried on the backs of 
camels and horses, many hundred miles through a wild and 
almost uninhabited region. This was a dangerous and ex- 
pensive journey. 

8. Everybody believed the earth was flat. The fact of its 
being a round globe had not yet been determined. But the 
man w^as living, who was chosen by God to be the harbinger 
of tidings of great joy to many nations. 

9. In the last quarter of the fifteenth century, among the 
bravest of the brave, and the best of the good, w^as a man 
called CHRiSToriiER Columbus. He was a citizen of Genoa, 
a little republic in Italy. While gaining a livelihood as a 

6. What did they call the southern extremity of Africa 1 What had 
merchants been hoping "? Where did they think the cape would lead ? 

7. How did goods from India have to be carried ? 

8. What was believed about the earth 1 

9. Where did Columbus live 1 What was his occupation ? 



14 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

pilot, his leisure moments were spent in study and meditation. 
He had been a sailor from boyhood. His father was proud 
of his brave boy, and sent him to the best schools of the 
day to get a knowledge of Geography, Astronomy, and 
Navigation. 

10. When he was about forty-eight or fifty years old, he 
thought he would go to Lisbon, the city where the learned 
and adventurous were gathered, who wished to sail on voyages 
of discovery. 

11. While in Lisbon, he married the daughter of a navi- 
gator, and thus came in possession of many valuable charts 
and journals. 

12. After much study, he came to the conclusion that the 
earth w^as a large round hall^ which might be traveled around 
from east to w^est, and that men stood feet to feet at opposite 
points. That the w^orld might be properly balanced, he be- 
lieved there must be much land on the Avestern side, which 
he supposed might be connected with India. Columbus 
found it very difiicult to make people believe as he did. 
When he said he was going to turn the prow of his vessel 
West^ and embark on the unknown. sea on a voyage of dis- 
covery, many laughed scornfully at him. 

10. How old was he when he went to Lisbon % 

11. Whom did he marry in Lisbon ? 

12. What conclusion did he come to after much study ? What did he 
think was necessary to balance the world ? Did people believe as he 
did? 



ISABELLA OF SPAIN. 15 

13. Columbus was a good man ; lie acknowledged God in 
all his ways. In the midst of all his trials, he was cheered 
by the firm belief that God had selected him for noble work : 
he believed he was to be a gos]3el bearer to the heathen in- 
habitants of unknown lands. 

14. Filled with hope — cheered by visions of success — rely- 
ing on God — he put aside his books and charts and began to 
think how he could fit out an expedition. He had no money, 
and but few friends. 

15. Hoping the king of Portugal would assist him, Columbus 
told his plans, and his great hopes of success. But the king, 
who was John II., would not assist him. Columbus was dis- 
appointed, but not discouraged. He applied after this to 
other kings and queens. No one listened favorably to his 
story. Poor Columbus ! 

16. Sick at heart, he was almost ready to give up his 
darling project, when he was summoned by the virtuous and 
noble queen Isabella of Spain, to appear once more at court. 
Again Columbus, as it were, offered to the Spanish king and 
queen a new world, so sure was he that if he could have 
vessels to sail on the unknown ocean, he would discover vast 



13. What did Columbus believe he was to do ? 

14. Had Columbus money or friends ? 

15. To what king did he tell his plans 1 Would the king assist him 1 
To whom did he then apply ? Would they do anything for him 1 

16. Who at length summoned him before her ? What did the king say? 
What is said of the queen 1 



16 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

tracts of land. King Ferdinand said the war they had been 
engaged in with the Moors, had taken all the money they 
could spare. Queen Isabella's kind heart was moved by the 
sorrowful perseverance of Columbus. She hoped not so much 
that great possessions might be discovered for Spain, as that 
glad tidings of a Saviour might be carried to the heathen. 

IT. She came generously forward, saying she would rather 
pawn her diamonds and jewels than have Columbus fail in 
his project. Then the great heart of Columbus was cheered. 
He could hardly help weeping for joy as he left the queen to 
make preparations for the YOjage. 

Was it not noble in the queen to prefer the good of others 
to the adornment of her person ? Diamonds and pearls are 
beautiful, indeed, but Isabella of Spain needed not the spark- 
ling gem to make her appear beautiful. 

18. The queen furnished two small vessels, and Columbus 
and some of his friends fitted out a third. They were very 
unlike the great steamers and floating palaces of our day. 
They were not much larger than pilot-boats. Only the 
largest vessel had a deck : this was called the Santa Ifaria. 
The queen's vessels were called the Pinta and Nina. Co- 
lumbus sailed in the Santa Maria. One hundred and twenty 
persons joined Columbus in his great expedition. 

17. What did she say she would do ? Which do you like best — Isabella 
or Ferdinand ? 

18. What aid did the queen furnish ? How large were they ? What 
were their names ? How many persons joined Columbus ? 



VOYAGE ACROSS THE OCEAN. 17 

19. The story of the first voyage of Columbus on the un- 
kuown ocean is exceedingly interesting. On the 3d of 
August, 1492, they set sail from Palos in Spain. A few 
years before, Columbus, burdened with trials and losses, had 
in this very little town, Palos, begged a bit of bread, and a 
cup of water for his hungry child — now, as Admiral of a 
little fleet, with bounding heart he sets sail on his great 
mission. Little did the crowd on shore, who saw him depart, 
dream of the glorious future soon to open, not only to Colum- 
bus, but to the world. 

Columbus set sail on Friday. Many sailors since then 
have refused to leave port on Friday, because they are so 
foolish and superstitious as to believe Friday is an unlucky 
day. It certainly did not prove so to Columbus. 

20. They steered directly for the Canary Islands. There 
they stopped and refitted their little vessels ; and on the 9th 
of September, boldly turned their prows to the mysterious 
West^ and launched on an unknown ocean. Some of the 
men felt very sad — their sunny homes, their wives and chil- 
dren, were behind them ; and before them, a boundless waste 
of water, over which their vessels had never sailed. 

21. Columbus had nothing to guide him but the sun and 
stars, and an imperfect mariner's compass. When they were 

19. When did they leave Spain ? From what port did they sail ? 

20. Where did they stop first % Why did some of the men feel sad ? 

21. What had Columbus to guide him ? What happened when they were 
about'six hundred miles west of the Canary Islands'? What did many of 
the sailors declare ? 



18 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

about six hundred miles west of the Canary Islands, a sailor 
came to Columbus, pale with fright, saying that the magnetic 
needle did not point exactly to the north. They did not know 
the needle ever varied in its course. The astonishing fact 
spread like wild-fire among the seamen. Many of them de- 
clared they believed they were entering another world where 
were new laws of nature. Columbus used the little know- 
ledge he had of astronomy to quiet their fears. 

22. After this, for several days, they sailed on very hap- 
pily, wafted along by the trade winds. The trade winds 
blow continually from east to west. It is said the air was 
clear and balmy, and now and then a light-winged petrel 
told them land was near. 

But Columbus w^as doomed to sufi'er still more from his 
ignorant and timid crew. For long and weary days they 
were becalmed, and the alarmed and horne-sick men became 
almost unmanageable. Many of them mutinied, and de- 
clared they would throw Columbus overboard if he did not 
return to Spain. Even the pretty little land-birds, singing 
their songs so merrily, did not cheer the sailors. They had 
resolved to throw Columbus overboard, when a branch of 
thorn, with bright scarlet berries on it, floated by, and soon 
after a carved staff came on the water to tell them human 
beings were near to them. Columbus with gentle words 

22. How do the trade winds blow 1 What is said of Columbus and his 
men 1 What hindered them from throwing Columbus overboard 1 What 
did Columbus promise ? 



LAND DISCOVERED. 19 

promised he would return soon if land were not discovered. 
He told them how much they had been blessed by God on 
the voyage, and bade them sail on a few hours longer. 

23. Columbus could not close his anxious eyes in sleep. 
At midnight he caught the glimmer of a light. Dm-ing the 
night perfumed land-breezes fanned his brow, and, as day 
dawned, birds of beautiful plumage hovered around the 
vessels. Columbus was overjoyed when the light of day 
showed them beautiful wooded shores, with hills and vales, 
plains, forests, and rocks. 

24. Land was discovered on the 12th of October, 1492. 
They had been about two months on the voyage. 

25. Columbus told the men to prepare to land. He dressed 
himself in gold embroidered scarlet, and, taking the royal 
standard, first stepped upon the newly discovered shore. 

26. On landing, they all fell upon their knees, kissed the 
earth, and chanted a hymn of praise. Then, Columbus 
rising from the ground, waved the white banner, drew his 
sword, and proclaimed to the men that he took possession of 
the land in the name of Ferdinand and Isabella. 



23. What did Columbus see at midnight ? What did daylight show 
them? 

24. When was land discovered 1 How long had they been on the voyage 1 

25. How was Columbus dressed when he landed "? What had he in his 
hand? 

26. What was the first thing they did on landing ? What then did Co- 
lumbus proclaim to the men ? 



20 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

27. The land was one of the large cluster of islands called 
Bahamas. Columbus called the island San 8alvadoi\ 

28. As the vessels neared the shore, the naked natives fled 
with alarm into the forests. At first they thought great 
monsters from the deep ocean were coming to destroy them. 
By degrees they left their hiding-places, and began to look 
with wonder and delight at the scarlet dresses, glittering 
armor, and shining lace of the Spaniards. The Spaniards, 
on the other hand, looked with equal wonder on the savages, 
with their copper-colored skins unclothed, and painted with 
various colors. Columbus, believing the land was a part of 
India, called the natives Indians. 

29. Perhaps you ask what right Ferdinand and Isabella 
had to take possession of all heathen lands discovered by 
their subjects. The land was not an uninhabited desert, but 
crowded with natives, happy under a government of their 
own chiefs. 

30. The answer to this question tells a sad story of wrongs 
to the poor Indians. By the law of Christian nations^ the 
moment the discoverer landed on heathen shores, the lands 
were no longer owned by the savages'. The discovery of the 
]N"ew World has been an event full of blessing to the people 

27. What did Columbus call the land he discovered ? 

28. What is said of the natives 1 What did Columbus call the native 
Indians ? 

29. By what law did the new land belong to queen Isabella % 

30. Has it been better for the people of Europe that a New World was 
discovered % 



DEATH OFCOLUMBUS. 21 

of Europe, but a sad one for the red man. From the morn- 
ing of the 12th of October, when Columbus landed on their 
shores, until the present, an iron yoke and a foreign rule 
settled on their necks forever. 

31. When Columbus returned to Lisbon, he was received 
with great marks of honor by the king and queen and nobles. 
They were willing the next time to give him three large 
ships and fourteen smaller vessels. Columbus made several 
voyages. In 1498, he discovered the continent of South 
America at the mouth of the great river Oronoco. He died 
in the belief that the lands he had discovered were portions 
of India. 

32. Columbus died in 1506. His last days were full of 
hardships. His best friend, queen Isabella, was dead, and in 
neglect and disappointment, the great discoverer departed 
from a world for which he had done so much. The deep 
furrows in his care-worn face told how much he had suffered. 

33. We wish you to remember Chkistophee Columbus as 
the brave man who first led the way to the New World. In 
another lesson, I will tell you who discovered the Continent 
of North America. 

31. How was Columbus received on his return? Did Columbus cross 
the ocean again 1 When did he discover the continent of South America? 

32. When did Columbus die 1 What is said of his last days 1 Where 
was queen Isabella 1 

33. Who first led the way to the New World 1 



22 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES 



CHAPTEE II. 

OLUMBUS looked over the land he dis- 
covered in vain for a white man. Where- 
ever he went, he saw the same curious 
copper-colored beings. Both parties were a 
wonder to each other. On one side were the lordly 
Spaniards, oy pale faces ^ as the Indians called them, 
with their gilded buttons and gold-embroidered 
clothes. On the other, the almost naked red men, 
adorned with glittering shells and gorgeous plumes. 

2. The simple-hearted Indians did not believe the Span- 
iards were men like themselves, but ignorantly said they 
were children of the sun. With outstretched arms they 
welcomed them to their sunny land. They knew not what a 
sad fate awaited them. 

3. At the time of the first white settlement in America, 
thousands of Indians roamed over the country. Now there 




1. Were there no whites in the New World when Columbus discovered 
it? What colored people did he see ? 

2. What did the Indians think of the Spaniards ? Were the Indians 
glad to see them ? 

3. Were there many Indians in America when the whites first settled 
here ? Are there many now in the United States ? Where are Indians 



INDIANHISTORY. 23 

are very few to be found east of the Mississippi river ; but 
far west, toward the setting sun, many still remain. No one 
knows where the Indians came from. Some suppose they 
came from Asia across Behring's straits. 

4. "The Most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and 
giveth it to whomsoever he will." 

It is God who orders the rise and fall of nations. God is 
seen in history. But, dear children, remember also, while 
God orders the affairs of nations, he will listen to the voice 
of a little child ; for not even an insignificant sparrow falls to 
the ground, unnoticed by the all-seeing eye of our Heavenly 
Father. 

Eemember, also, when in history you read of nations pass- 
ing away, one generation coming and another passing away, 
God never changes — never dies. 

5. Soon the whites crowded the Indians from their pleasant 
places, and built cities and towns, and villages, all over their 
hunting-grounds — over the graves of their ancestors, and 
along their much loved rivers. 

We will tell you something about the Indians. 

6. The men are very fond of ornaments, and when they 
prepare for war, they take great pains to adorn themselves 

now to be found ? Where did Indians come from 1 Have you ever seen 
an Indian 1 

4. Who orders the rise and fall of nations 1 Will God listen to the voice 
of a child 1 Does God ever change ? 

5. How did the whites soon treat the Indians ? 

6. What is said of Indian men ? How do they adorn their bodies ? 



24 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

with glittering shells and shining stones. Thej hang their 
ears and cheeks and nose with ornaments. Their bodies are 
painted with different colors. Red is the favorite shade. 
They pierce the skin and then put on the paint. This they 
call tattooing. The bravest warriors wear the niost paint. 

Y. Indian women do not think so much of ornamenting 
themselves. While the men are abroad, engaged in war or 
hunting, the women till the ground and attend to their chil- 
dren. Sometimes they follow the hunting parties, and carry 
their ^ajpjpooses or babies on their backs. 

8. As the Indians do not stay very long in one spot, they 
do not care about building very strong houses. Their houses 
are called wigwams. Their wigwams are soon built. They 
have only to drive stakes of wood into the ground, and cover 
them with the bark and branches of trees. Tliey rest on 
mats or skins of wild animals. You would not find many 
articles of furniture in their wigwams : a few wooden dishes, 
and some spoons, formed from the skulls of wild oxen, and 
some flint-knives, and a few more rude utensils, are all that 
they have ever known. 



Which is their favorite color 1 What is tattooing ? Who wear the most 
paint ? 

7. What is said of Indian women ? How do they carry their children ? 
What do the Indians call their babies ? 

8. What kind of houses do Indians live in 1 What do they call their 
houses ? Have they beds and bedsteads to sleep on 1 What articles of 
furniture will you generally see in a wigwam ? 



INDIAN HISTORY. 25 

9. Indians love to roam over the dark forests in search of 
prey. Their manner of life renders their senses very acute. 
Their senses of smell and hearing are remarkably acute. A 
great many wonderful stories are told about the cunning of 
Indians. 

10. Their constitutions are very robust, and they often 
enjoy uninterrupted health, and live to a great age. Tliey 
eat very little at a meal' — a handful of maize often suffices 
them. It is said they looked with amazement at the quantity 
and variety of food which Europeans consumed. 

11. They have no books, and the learning on which w^e 
spend so much time, they consider of little use. The great 
deeds of their tribe are told to the women, who rehearse 
them in turn to their children. All the knowledge they have 
of former days has thus been handed down by tradition. 

12. In their j>nblic councils the wise old men sit in the 
first seats, the warriors next, and the women and children 
behind them. Great order prevails ; no one dares to inter- 
rupt the speaker, and even after he sits down, they all remain 

9. Where do Indians love to roam? What is said of the Indian's senses 
of hearing and smelling? What do you understand by an acute sense of 
hearing or smelling ? 

10. Are the Indians healthy 1 Do Indians eat much at a time ? 

11. Have Indians books or schools'? How do Indian children know 
what happened years ago, if there are no books ? What do you understand 
by tradition ? 

12. Who sit in the first seats in an Indian council? Who sit next to 
the wise old men ? Have they good order in their public meetings ? 

2 



26 HISTOEY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

quiet five or ten minutes, to allow him time to reflect whether 
he has anything else to say. Even in common conversation, 
the Indians reckoned it highly indecent to interrujDt another. 
They never contradict or deny the truth of what others assert 
in their presence. An Indian never stares rudely at any 
curious object, and, however much he may be surprised, he 
never shows it by the expression of his face. 

13. They never speak but when they have something im- 
portant to say, and they despise the giddiness and foolish 
Jesting of Europeans. There are many good traits in the 
Indian character, which it would be well to imitate. Their 
behavior is respectful and modest, and they are always at- 
tentive to the voice of the old men. 

14. Hospitality is a well known trait in Indian history. 
An old Indian once said to a cold-hearted white man, " Our 
mothers taught us when young to dry the stranger if he is 
wet, to warm him if he is cold, to give him meat and drink, 
and if the night-shadows fall, and tlie stranger is with us, 
she told us to spread furs for him to rest on. For this we 
ask no beads nor shells. The stranger is welcome in an 
Indian wigwam. But when I go to a white man's house, 
and ask for food or drink, they say. Where is your money ? 
and if I say I have nothing, they drive me from the door." 

Are Indians polite in conversation 1 Do they stare rudely when they see 
curious things 1 

13. What is said ahout their conversation 1 Do they honor aged persons 1 

14, What did an old Indian once tell a cold-hearted white man? 



INDIANHISTORY. 27 

This is not what we expect from people who have the Bible 
to teach them better. 

15. Tlie poor Indians believe in an nnknown God, and in 
a great many good and bad spirits, who interfere in the affairs 
of mortals and produce all their joy or woe. They believe 
their departed friends are forever happy in a cloudless land, 
where the rivers are stocked w^ith fish, and luxuriant forests 
abound in game. In the grave of their friends they bury 
their tomahawks and warlike implements, that they may have 
them to use in their heaven which is in the sweet south west. 

16. As you grow older, you will read many horrid stories 
of the red men. They have been called revengeful and 
cruel. By whom ? By their worst enemies — by those who 
have cruelly wronged them, and blasted every future dream 
of happiness for them as a nation. The Indians fought for 
their homes and the graves of their kindred. Once they 
were free as the unchained wind from heaven. J^orth and 
south, east and west, the land they saw was all their own. 
They roamed at will over the broad prairies, and glided in 
the swift canoe down their majestic rivers. They were happy 
and free until the civilized white man robbed them of their 
hunting-grounds and peaceful homes, and made them sinful 
and wretched by teaching them the vices of civilized life. 

15. What is said of the religious belief of Indians ? What kind of a 
place do the Indians believe their heaven is ? 

16. Who have called the poor Indians revengeful and cruel ? Have the 
whites treated the Indians kindly 1 For what did the Indians fight 1 Were 
they once happy and free 1 Are they still happy and free 1 Have the 
white people done what is right 1 



28 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES 



CHAPTEE III. 

NTELLIGEl^CE of the great discoveries made 
by Columbus soon spread among the nations 
of Europe. Other expeditions were fitted out 
by those who were anxious to share the glory 
of new discoveries, and obtain possessions in 
the New World. 

2. Among the rest were John Cabot and his son 
Sebastian Cabot. They sailed from England in May, 
1497, and in June discovered the American continent, 
in the vicinity of Labrador. Tliis was before any one else 
had reached the continent. They afterwards exjDlored the 
coast to Maryland. 

3. In 1499, Alonzo de Ojeda, a companion of Columbus 
in former voyages, reached the continent at Paria. Among 
those who accompanied him was Americus Yespucius, a 
Florentine gentleman, who, on his return, published a glow- 
ing account of the voyage. The honor of giving a name to 




1. Were other expeditions fitted out after the return of Columbus 1 

2. Who are mentioned among- the rest 1 Who did they send from Eng- 
land ■? When and where did they discover the continent 1 

3. When did Alonzo de Ojeda reach the continent ? Who accompanied 
him 1 What did he do on his return 1 



THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH. 29 

the continent, was therefore bestowed on him. This was 
wrong, for he in reality discovered but little. The continent 
should have been named after Columbus, for he was the 
pioneer in all these voyages. Several others explored dif- 
ferent parts of the coast of the United States, and all were 
delighted with the beauty of the climate, the rich soil, trees, 
fruit, and flow^ers. They said the country looked like the 
garden of Eden. 

4. France, Spain, Portugal, England, all sent out ships to 
gain possession of territory in America. But there was one 
navigator who went for a very curious purpose. His name 
w^as Juan Ponce de Leon. He was with Columbus when he 
made his first voyage. He had heard in Spain of a perpetual 
fountain, said to exist in the !New World, in the midst of a 
country glittering with gems and gold, which had virtues to 
renovate the life of those who should bathe in its streams, 
and restore to youth the happy man who should drink of its 
ever-flowing waters. De Leon's head was gray with age, 
and his cheeks browned and furrowed with long service, and 
he thought he would strive to reach this wonderful fountain, 
drink of its waters, and become young again. He therefore 
fitted out three ships, and in a short time discovered Florida, 
and landed upon the coast near St. Augustine. Although he 
searched a long time for the fountain, he was obliged to 
return without finding it. We need not tell you no such 
fountain ever existed. 

4. What other countries sent out ships 1 What is said of Juan Ponce de 
Leon ? Wliat country did he discover '' 



30 HISTOEY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

5. Pamphilio de Narvaez afterwards attempted to conquer 
Florida, but lie was driven oiF by the Indians, and nearly all 
of liis men killed. 

6. Florida was supposed to be a land full of diamonds and 
gold and all kinds of precious stones. Notwithstanding the 
fate of JSTarvaez, Ferdinand de Soto determined to conquer 
the country, and so obtain its immense wealth. No sooner 
had he made known his plan in Spain, than hundreds of the 
bravest and noblest in the land flocked to his standard, all 
eager to depart for a land so full of riches. In 1539, they 
landed in the Bay of Spiritu Santo, in Florida, and com- 
menced their march in search of gold. 

Their sufferings were terrible. Constantly exposed to the 
attacks of Indians, marching through swamps, and over 
mountains, scorched by the sun, they soon wished themselves 
back in their native land. They marched hundreds of miles 
through a country rich with vegetation, yet still they found 
no gold. In some of their battles with the Indians, their 
clothes were all destroyed, and they were compelled to make 
themselves garments of the skins of wild beasts. 

T. In this condition they wandered through the country, 
until they came to a mighty river, which had never been 
discovered before. This w^as the river Mississippi. 

5. Who afterwards attempted to conquer Florida ? Was he successful ? 

6. What was Florida supposed to be ? Who, after Narvaez, attempted 
to conquer the country 1 When and where did he land ? Did they suffer 
in their march "? 

7. What place did they at length reach ? 



D E A T H O F D E S O T O . 31 

Here De Soto, worn by fatigue and constant exposure, was 
attacked by a fever, which terminated his life. His followers 
wrapped him in a cloak, and in the silence of midnight, 
lighted by torches, carried him out into the middle of the 
stream, and buried him in the waters he had discovered. 
His men at length reached a Spanish settlement in Mexico, 
and returned to Spain. Tliey had suffered much, and yet 
found none of that vast wealth for which they so eagerly 
sought. 

Twenty-three yeai-s after the death of De Soto, some Span- 
iards settled at St. Augustine. This is the oldest town in the 
United States. 

What is said of De Soto 1 Where was he buried 1 



32 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CHAPTEE lY. 

AILIKG across the Atlantic was mucli more 
difficult three or four hundred years ago, 
than it is now. Then people understood 
but little about the American coast, and 
ships were often cast away, and all on board 
swallowed up by the waves. Sir Humjpliry Gil- 
tert^ a fine soldier and statesman, was told by 
Elizabeth, Queen of England, that he might have 
as much land as he would discover and occupy in 
America. He therefore, in 1585, set sail with five ships and 
a considerable number of men, that he might be able to 
make a settlement in America. He first landed at New- 
foundland, and then proceeded south. A terrific storm arose 
soon after, in which the ship and all the crew went down. 
They struggled hard for life, but the great waves swept them 
away. The ocean was their grave, and the dark cold water 
their winding sheet. 

2. A step-brother of Gilbert, Sir Walter J^aleigh, having 




1. What did Queen Elizabeth tell Sir Humphry Gilbert? When did he 
set sail 1 Where did he first land 1 What became of the ships and crew 1 

2. Who followed Gilbert 1 What name did the Queen give to the 
country they visited ? 



NOKTH AND SOUTH VIRGINIA. 33 

obtained tlie same permission of the queen, sent his vessels 
to the Kew World, telling the captains to seek a mild climate. 
It was in the month of July when these vessels arrived 
opposite the shores of Carolina, and entered the first con- 
venient harbor. The flowers were in full bloom, birds of 
beautiful plumage filled the air with their sweet notes, and 
the trees were loaded with fruit, and covered with such rich 
foliage as the sailors had never seen before. When they 
returned, they told the queen how beautiful the country 
was. The queen, referring to her unmarried state, called the 
country Yirginia. 

3. In 1585, and also in 158T, Ealeigh sent out a number 
of emigrants to form a settlement in Virginia, but both of 
these expeditions being compelled to return to England, the 
country was left in the quiet possession of the Indians for 
several years. From 1602 to 1605, several voyages were 
made ; and bays and rivers on the coast of America, before 
unknown, explored. The account these navigators gave of 
the country, on their retm-n home, led a large number of 
people to think of forming settlements in America. 

4. The part of this country claimed by Great Britain, ex- 
tended from Canada to Florida, and was divided by King 
James into two parts, which he called North Yirginia and 

3. When did Raleigh send out emigrants 1 Were the expeditions suc- 
cessful 1 

4. What part of this country was claimed by Great Britain ? What 
were the two parts into which King James divided the country called ? To 
what company did the king give'North Virginia 1 To what South Virginia ? 

2* 



34 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



South Yirginia. More than a hundred years after Cokimbus 
had made his great discoveries, two companies were formed 
in England ; one called the London company, and the other 
the Plymouth company. To the London company, the king 
gave South Yirginia, and to the Plymouth company, Korth 
Virginia 




SETTLEMENT OF JAMESTOWN 



35 



CHAPTEE Y. 




VIRGINIA. 

IN" 1606, the London company sent over three 
ships and 118 men, under the command of 
Newport. They discovered a broad and beau- 
tiful river, which they named James, after 
their king. Ascending this river for about 
fifty miles, they admired the beauty of the scenery, the 
rich foliage of the trees, and the fruits and flowers 
which everywhere met their eyes. 

2. They landed at the peninsula of Jamestown, and 
commenced their settlement. The colony might have pros- 
pered and been happy had they paid any attention to the 
cultivation of the soil. But they were, most of them, idle 
persons, who came to this country, hoping they might find 
here a place where they could live without work. They very 
soon found their mistake ; for in a short time famine stared 
them in the face. Without sufficient food, exposed to the 
heat of the sun, and the changes of a climate to which they 
were unaccustomed, many of them fell victims of disease 
and died, and all suffered more or less severely. 

1. When did the London company send over ships'? Under whose com- 
mand 1 What river did they discover ? 

2. Where did they land and commence a settlement ? Why did not the 
settlement prosper ? From what did they suffer 1 



36 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

3. Had it not been for one of their number, Captain John 
Smith, a man of great energy of character, they would either 
have perished or have been compelled to go back to England. 
The history of this man from early life, was full of startling 
adventures and hair-breadth escapes from great dangers and 
suiferings. He had visited Egypt, Italy, and France, and 
fought many battles against the Turks. He was at length 
taken prisoner and sold into slavery, where he was compelled 
to toil early and late. After a time, he succeeded in making 
his escape and regaining his liberty. 

4. On his return to England, he joined a party about to 
emigrate for the Xew World. It was well for them that he 
did so, as he alone could exert any influence over the In- 
dians. He frequently went out to explore the country. In 
one of these expeditions he left his crew, with the exception 
of two Englishmen and two Indians, in the boat with which 
he had ascended the river and set off into the country. He 
had not gone far before he saw a large body of Indians in 
full pursuit, brandishing their clubs and tomahawks, evi- 
dently wishing to take his life. On coming near him they 
fired, killed the Englishmen, and wounded himself. 

5. Imagine the position in which Smith was placed. Behind 
him was a large number of savages, determined to make him 

3. What can you say of the early life of Captain John Smith 1 

4. Where did he go on his return to England 1 Was he afraid of the 
Indians 1 What became of the two Englishmen who went with him on his 
expedition up James river 1 

6. Describe Captain Smith's attack by the Indians. 



POCAHONTAS. ' 37 



prisoDer, while he was wounded and far away from any hope 
of help. What did he do? — give up in despair, throw him- 
self on his knees, and beg for mercy ? No ! but, seizing his 
Indian guide, held him in front as a shield from the arrows 
of the Indians, while he, as he fled backward, fired upon the 
enemy, killing several of their number. At length coming 
to a swamp, he sunk so deep in it as to be unable to extricate 
himself, and was taken captive. 

6. But the cunning of Smith did not desert him even while 
in the hands of the Indians, but presenting an ivory compass 
to the chief, he excited their astonishment by telling them 
of its singular powers. For a moment they trembled, and 
thought him a superior being, but their savage feelings 
returned again, and they bound him to a tree, and would 
have put him to death had not the chief interfered. He 
was then taken to Powhattan, their king, and condemned to 
death. 

7. He is led out into the midst of the Indians, bound hard 
and fast, and his head placed upon a stone. Poor Smith ! 
must he die ? See that dark band standing around him, 
their eyes flashing with savage joy. There is no help there 
— no smile of pity is seen on those swarthy faces. Powhattan 
raises the club to strike, and draws back to make the blow 
more sure. Hark ! a shriek of terror rings upon the air, and 
a beautiful girl rushes from the throng, and throws "her arms 

6. How did he excite the curiosity of the Indians ? 

7. Who rescued hinn from the threatened death 1 



38 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

around the neck of the captive. She puts back the long 
raven hair from her brow, and lifts her eyes dewy with tears 
to those stern faces around her, and pleads for the prisoner's 
life. Who is she ? you ask : her name is Pocahontas. She 
is the daughter of the king, that stern man who was about to 
strike the fatal blow. The father's heart is softened ; he 
lays aside the club, and gives the prisoner liberty. Smith 
returned to Jamestown. Pocahontas was always after the 
firm friend of the English. 

8. A short time after, her father determined to destroy all 
the whites at Jamestown. Pocahontas, on a dark and stormy 
night, traveled through the woods alone, and put the English 
on their guard. She was afterwards married to an English 
gentleman by the name of Polf, with whom she lived very 
happily. In 1609, Smith was injured by a discharge of gun- 
powder, so that he was obliged to return to England. 

9. After the death of Powhattan, who had been the friend 
of the English since the marriage of his daughter, the In- 
dians, headed by Op-e-clian-can-onglh^ formed a plan to de- 
stroy all the whites in the country. They would have accom- 
plished their bloody purpose, had not some of the settlements 
received at a latf hour intelligence of the plot and put them- 
selves on their guard : as it was, some three hundred whites 

p. i T'Hv did Pocahontas afterwards befriend the English? Whom did 
she \\v\w\ ? Why was Smith obliged to return to England? 

i). \\'.-:v ;'ie Indians friendly to the whites after the death of Powhattan ? 
i Vshat iilaii did th^ Tndinns form? What happened? 



INDIAN WAKFARE. 39 

were butclierecl by the Indiaas in cold blood, and their houses 
burned to ashes. 

10. Nearly twenty years after, this chief, then an old man, 
again excited the Indians to hostilities against the whites. 
For a number of months they ravaged the country, leaving 
the marks of their progress wherever they went, in the blood 
of their murdered victims, and their houses burned and 
blackened by the lire. But the whites at length drove them 
into the woods, killed a great number of them, and took their 
chief, prisoner. From this time, Yirginia rapidly increased 
in population, and became so strong that the Indians dared 
not trouble them. 

10. What did the same old chief do twenty years after ? What did the 
whites at length do ? Did the Indians dare to come back to their pleasant 
old hunting-grounds 1 






40 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES 



CHAPTEK YI. 

NORTHERN SETTLEMENTS. 

NEW YORK. 

'NEW YOEK was not originally settled by 
the English, but by tlie Dutch, and was 
subject to their laws for a number of years. 
The Hudson river, one of the most beau- 
tiful streams of water in the world, was discovered 
in 1609, by Henry Hudson, an Englishman, but 
then in the service of the Dutch. 

He sailed up the river as far as the present city 
of Albany, and was delighted with the magnificent 
scenery which everywhere met his eye. 

2. The Dutch claimed all the country discovered by Hud- 
son ; and shortly after his return, a number of emigrants 
came and built a few houses on the island of Manhattan. 

The houses were poor, and looked more like hovels than 
anything else. Yet on this island, which they purchased for 

1. Who settled New York 1 Who discovered the Hudson river ? 

2. What country did the Dutch claim ? How much did they pay for the 
island of Manhattan 1 What great city is built on that island 1 How does 
New York Bay now look 1 




NEWNETHERLANDS. 41 

■twenty dollars^ now stands the great and wealthy city of 
N^ew Yorh^ the largest city in America, and one of the 
largest in the world. 

Where those few hovels then stood, can now be seen great 
buildings several stories high, and filled with costly goods. 
The rivers and bay, which were then so silent, are now filled 
with great ships and beautiful steamboats, sailing to every 
part of the world. 

3. The Dutch called their settlement on Manhattan Wew 
Amsterdam^ after a city in their own country. Their trade 
gradually extended up the river, and in 1615, they erected a 
fort near Albany which they called Fort Orange. The whole 
country they named Wew Netherlands. 

The country remained in the hands of the Dutch until 
1664:, when it was granted by the King of England to his 
brother, the Duke of York, who soon after sent several ships 
to take possession of the territory. 

4. Arriving at New Amsterdam^ he demanded a surrender 
of the country. General Stuyvesant, a brave old man, with 
a wooden leg, was then governor. He was very unwilling to 
give up the country, and was anxious to have his people take 

3. What did the Dutch call the settlement on Manhattan Island 1 What 
settlement did they make up the river ? What name did they give to the 
whole country belonging to them ? How long did the Dutch own the 
country % To whom did the King of England grant the country ? 

4. Was the Dutch governor willing to surrender to the English ? What 
was his name ? Was he brave % Why was he obliged to surrender to the 
English ? 



i2 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



up arms and fight. In this, however, he did not succeed, 
and was obliged to surrender to the English. 

5. The name of the place was then changed to JVetv YarJc. 
after the Duke of York, wdio afterw^ard became James II. 
The country in a short time was re-conquered by the Dutch, 
but finally passed into the hands of the English. 

The people of JVew York, as well as the other colonies, 
suffered much from the ravages of the Indians, from disease, 
and also from fatigue in hewing down great forests, and turn- 
inof the wilderness into cultivated fields. 

5. What did the English name Manhattan Island ? Did the Dutch ever 
try to get possession again 1 Could they ? From what did the people of 
New York suffer ? 




MASSACHUSETTS. 



43 



CHAPTEE YII. 




MASSACHUSETTS. 

HE first settlement in New England was at 
Plymouth in Massachusetts. The character 
of the people was entirely different from 
that of the settlers in Yirginia. They came, 
not to realize visions of fame and wealth, 
but to have a home where they could w^orship God as 
they pleased. At home they were exposed to perse- 
cution, on account of peculiar religious views. By a 
law of the land, all persons were compelled to attend 
a church established by government, once every month, or 
suffer imprisonment. If they refused to attend for three 
months, they were banished from the country ; and if they 
refused to go, they were put to death. 

2. This was cruel and unjust, and the Puritans felt they 
had better leave their native land than to be exposed to per- 
secution. They accordingly sailed to Holland ; but here 
they were among a race of people speaking a different lan- 

1. Where was the first settlement made in New England ? Were there 
settlers like the people of Virginia 1 Why did they come to America 1 To 
what were they exposed at home ? 

2. Where did they go before they came to America ? 



44 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

guage, with different habits and customs. Everything appeared 
strange, and they finally resolved to seek a home in America. 

3. Mr. John Carver was accordingly sent to England to 
procure a grant of land. This w^as obtained ; and in a short 
time two small vessels, the Speedwell and the Mayflower^ 
were ready to carry the pilgrims on their long journey. 
Eobinson, their minister, with a large part of the congre- 
gation remained behind. 

4. Tlie j)arting of these friends, bound together by the 
closest ties of Christian love, was very aifecting. The tears 
streamed down their cheeks, and as they grasped each other's 
hands, they wept an adieu they could not speak. The ships, 
after touching at Southampton in England, proceeded on 
their voyage ; but the Speedwell soon put back and left the 
Mayflower to pursue its way alone. 

5. They expected to land near the Hudson, but after a 
weary voyage of nearly two months, they came within sight 
of the bleak shore of Cape Cod. 

It was now in the m.onth of December, and the weather 
was so cold that they determined to land at the first conve- 
nient spot. Sailing along the shore, on the third day, they 
found themselves in Plymouth harbor. 

Why did they leave Holland 1 

3. Why was Mr. Carver sent to England ? What were the names of 
the vessels in which the pilgrims came to America 1 

4. What is said of the parting of the pilgrims ? What happened to the 
Speedwell 1 

5. Where did they land ? What is said of the weather ? 



LANDING OF THE PUEITANS. 45 

6. The next day was the Sabbath. They loved the holy 
day, and from that lone ship the voice of i3rayer and the 
song of praise ascended towards heaven. On the day fol- 
lowing, the 21st of December, they landed on Plymouth rock, 
and commenced their settlement. The name Plymouth was 
given in remembrance of Plymouth in England. 

7. What a dreary prospect lay before them ! On one side 
was the broad Atlantic over which they had just passed, and 
on the other a wilderness of ice and snow. That winter was 
a sad and bitter one for the poor pilgrims. Famine and 
death were in their midst, and before spring returned, they 
had carried out more than one-half of their number, and 
buried them in the cold grave. 

Death at all times is terrible, even when the victim is sur- 
rounded by friends and all the comforts of life ; but when 
he falls, far away from his native land, and makes his grave, 
not among his kindred, but on a foreign shore, there is an 
additional pang. 

8. During the winter, they were undisturbed by the In- 
dians, and they afterwards learned that four years before a 
mortal plague had swept through the country, and destroyed 
nearly all the natives. 

There is an interesting circumstance connected with this 

6. Did they remember to keep holy the Sabbath ? 

7. Describe the situation of the pilgrims. How many died during the 
first winter? 

8. Relate the circumstance connected with the pestilence which broke 
out amontr them. 



46 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

pestilence. Several years before, a French ship was wrecked 
on Cape Cocl, and nearly all the crew destroyed by the na- 
tives. One who was saved, after he had learned the Indian 
language, told them how wicked they had been, and that 
God would punish them for what they had done. But the 
Indians laughed at him, and asked how God would be able 
to kill so many Indians. The sailor replied that God was 
great, and could find some way to punish them. When the 
plague appeared among them and commenced its fearful 
ravages, they remembered the words of the sailor, and trem- 
bled at what they thought the anger of God. 

9. After several months, an Indian, named Sam^set^ who 
had learned a little English of the fishermen at Penobscot, 
entered the town, saying, '' Welcome, Englishman ! welcome. 
Englishman !" With his aid, they entered into a treaty of 
peace with Massasoit, the sachem of the Wampenoags, which 
remained unbroken for more than half a century. 

10. Canonicus, the chief of the Karraganset Indians, jeal- 
ous of the intimacy between Massasoit and the whites, sent 
to Plymouth a bunch of arrows wrapped in a rattle snake 
skin, as a token of his hostility. He thought by doing this 
he should frighten the English ; but he was very much mis- 
taken, for the English governor filled the skin with powder 
and ball and sent it back. Canonicus thought the safest 
course for him to pursue, would be to let the English alone. 

9. What is said of Samoset ? With whom did they make a treaty of peace 1 

10. What did Canonicus send to Plymouth ? What did the Englisli 
governor do '^ 



RELIGIOUS PERSECUTIONS 



47 




0A.C.5C 



Treaty of the Puritans with Massasoit. 

11. The spirit of religious persecution still continued in 
England, and it was not long before the adventurers who 
settled at Plymouth were followed by hundreds more, who, 
like them, were willing to suffer the hardships of the emi- 
grant's life, that they might enjoy religious freedom. Settle- 
ments w^ere formed at Salem, Boston, Charlestown, Roxbury, 
Dorchester, &c. 

12. We should suppose that persons who had suffered per- 
secution, would be willing to allow others to enjoy without 
opposition their owui religious views. ■ This was not the case 
with the Puritans, for they soon became very intolerant and 
bitter in their persecutions against those who held different 



11, What other settlements were shortly after formed 1 

12. Did the Puritans persecute those who did not believe as they did 1 



48 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

religious views from themselves. Eoger Williams, a good 
man, who, like them, had fled from persecution, was ban- 
ished from the colony for maintaining that toleration ought 
to be granted to all sects ; that oaths to the king and magis- 
trates were wrong ; and that the colonial charter was unjust. 
In 1656, the Quakers were severely persecuted, many of 
whom were banished from the colony, and some put to death. 

13. While Indian war was desolating a portion of the 
country, the inhabitants of a part of Massachusetts were 
affected with troubles brought on by their own superstitions. 

You would hardly believe it possible that old men and 
women should believe in witches, yet many intelligent per- 
sons, not only in England, but in the colonies, believed in them ; 
and, with great gravity, actually passed laws making the 
crime of witchcraft punishable with death. 

In the year 1692, the excitement in the colonies com- 
menced in Danvers, Mass. Children, and even old persons, 
would fall into convulsions, and conduct themselves strangely, 
and then accuse some of having bewitched them. Every 
one was liable to suspicion. A great many persons were 
thrown into prison, and several were executed. People 
finally began to be alarmed and open their eyes to the delu- 
sion. On taking decided measures, witchcraft soon ceased to 
trouble the people. 

What did they do to Williams ? Why ? What other persecution is spoken 

on 

13. In what foolish superstition did some of the people believe ? What 
is said about it ? ■ 



CONNECTICUT 



49 



CHAPTEK YIII. 



CONNECTICUT. 

HE Dutch, who had settled in New York, 
understanding the English were about to 
settle Connecticut, determined to anticipate 
their movements and settle it themselves. 
They accordingly, in 1633, sent out a party, 
who built a fort at Hartford, on the Connecticut river. 
Tliey thought, by placing a cannon on the fort, they 
could prevent the English from coming up the river. 
But they were very much mistaken, for the English 
soon showed them they did not care for them or their fort. 
2. The same season the people of Plymouth sent Captain 
Holmes to make a settlement in Connecticut. As he sailed 
up the Connecticut river, and came opposite the Dutch fort, 
the people in the fort hailed him, and told him to pull down 
his flag, or they would fire upon him. 

Holmes did not care for their threats, but sailed past the 




1. When did the Dutch build a fort at Hartford 1 

2. Who was sent from Plymouth to make a settlement in Connecticut? 
Did Holmes care for the threats of the Dutch 1 At what place did he 
settle ? 

3 



50 HISTOEY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

fort, laughing at the Dutchmen, who were very angry to 
think they could not frighten him. He soon reached Wind- 
sor and commenced a settlement. 

3. In 1635, sixty men started across the country for Con- 
necticut from the vicinity of Boston. They unwisely com- 
menced their journey late in the fall and suffered much from 
cold and fatigue. 

Travelling then was very different from what it is now. 
Tlrere were no fine roads aind bridges ; the whole country 
was a wilderness, and those who travelled were obliged to 
ford deep rivers, wade through swamps, and journey for 
days through dark forests. Now you can go the whole 
distance, seated in elegant cars, drawn over a railroad by 
steam, in a few hours. 

4. The emigrants, after a long and weary journey, arrived 
in Connecticut, and settled at Windsor, Hartford, and We- 
thersfield. 

They were not permitted to remain very long in peace, for 
a fierce and hostile tribe of Indians, called the Pequods, 
living in the vicinity of the Thames river, hated them, and 
determined either to destroy them or drive them from the 
country. In 1637, they had committed so many outrages on 
the w^iites, that the people of Connecticut determined, for 
their own safety, to commence a war with them. They 
therefore placed under the command of Captain John Mason 
as many men as they could spare for the defense of their 

3. When did a party start across the country ? 

4. Where did they settle 1 What tribe of Indians did they have war with ? 



INDIAN WARFARE. 51 

homes, and sent them against their savage foes. On the 
morning of the 5th of June, while the Indians were all quiet 
in sleep, never dreaming that the enemy was so near, Mason 
with his brave band stole silently up to the host. As they 
were about entering, a watch-dog gave the alarm, but before 
the Indians were fairly aroused. Mason was in their midst, 
shooting them down like sheep. The Indians soon rallied 
and fought like tigers. For a time nothing was heard but 
groans, shrieks,' and the roar of fire-arms. Mason, finally 
growing weary of the fight, seized a burning fire brand, and 
applied it to the dry wigwam. In a moment they were all 
on fire, and the poor Indians, as they tried to escape from 
the flames, were shot down by scores. In this battle, more 
than six hundred of the Pequods perished. Their power 
was forever broken ; in a short time this powerful tribe 
was extinct. After this bloody battle, the people of Con- 
necticut were not again troubled by the Indians for many 
years. 

5. In 1638, ISTew Haven, now one of the most beautiful 
cities in the world, was settled by a company from England. 
They were very pious. On assembling together to make 
laws, shortly after their settlement, they determined that the 
Bible should be their only law-book. The Dutch of New 
York and the people of Connecticut often had severe 

Under whom did they place the command of their forces ? Who was 
victorious 1 

5. When was New Haven settled ? 



52 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

quarrels, and made use of a great many hard words, but 
finally everything was amicably settled. The people of Con- 
necticut never liked oppression, and sometimes made use of 
curious means to avoid it. 

In 1687, Sir Edmund Andross came to Hartford, having a 
commission from King James, as governor of New England. 
Andross demanded that the assembly, then in session, should 
give up the charter of the colony. The charter was brought 
in and placed on the table. A warm discussion now took 
place, during which all the lights were blown out. When 
they were again lighted, the charter was no where to be 
found. Capt. Wadsworth had hidden it in the bark of an oak 
tree, which is now standing, and called the " Charter Oak." 

In 1693, Col. Fletcher, governor of New York, came to 
Hartford and demanded that the militia should be placed 
under his command, saying that he held a commission from 
the king. The militia were assembled, but when Fletclier 
commenced reading his ^commission, Captain "Wadsworth 
ordered the drums to beat. 

Fletcher was angry, and ordered silence ; but no sooner 
did he commence reading, than Wadsworth shouted, " Drum, 
drum ! I say," and then, turning to Fletcher, said, in a voice 
that made him tremble, '' If I am interrupted again, I will 
make daylight shine through you !" Fletcher, seeing he could 
do nothing, went back to New York, and never after troubled 
the Connecticut militia. 

When and for what purpose did Andross come to Hartford ? What was 
done with the charter 1 For what purpose did Fletcher come to Hartford ? 



ROGEE WILLIAMS. 



53 




CHAPTEE IX. 

NEW HAMPSHIRE. 

EW HAMPSHIKE was a part of Massa- 
chusetts until 1680. The first settlement 
was made in 1623, at Little Harbor, in 
Dover, by a company sent out by Captain 
John Mason and Sir Ferdinand Gorges. 

RHODE ISLAND. 

We have already told you that Koger Williams 
was banished from Massachusetts. 

2. This was not because he was bad, for he was a very 
pious and good man, but because he believed and preached 
what the people of Massachusetts thought was wrong. They 
forgot that they themselves were pursuing the same system 
of persecution towards Williams as that which made them 
flee from England. 

It was in the depth of winter when Williams left the 
settlement. The ground was covered with snow, and the 
weather was very cold. Williams suffered severely before 

1. When was the first settlement formed in New Hampshiie 1 

2. Why was Williams banished from Massachusetts 1 



54 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

be reached the Narraganset Indians. These Indians he had 
before visited, and they now gave him a warm welcome. 

In the following spring, 1636, a few friends from Massa- 
chusetts joined him, and they commenced a settlement at the 
head of Narraganset Bay. 

God had been very kind to him, and he therefore called 
the place Providence. In 1639, a settlement was formed at 
Newport, on the Island of Rhode Island. 

The colony of Ehode Island prospered and w^as happy. 
There was no religions persecution there, but all were allowed 
to worship God as they chose. This was right and just. In 
the blessed religion taught by our Savior, there is no spirit 
of persecution, but all is love and peace. 

» Where did Williams go when he left the settlement ? W^here and when 
did he commence a settlement ? Why did he call it Providence ? 



NEW SWEDEN. 



55 



CHAPTEK X. 

SETTLEMENT OF THE MIDDLE AND SOUTHERN COLONIES. 
NEW JERSEY. 

EW JEKSEY was first settled by the Danes 
in 1624. It was included in New Nether- 
lands, so that when New York passed into 
the hands of the English, New Jersey went 
it. 

1664, the English made a settlement at 
Eiizabethtown. In the same year, the Duke of 
York disposed of New Jersey to Lord Berkley 
and Sir George Carter. The proprietors divided 
the country by a line running north and south ; hence the 
names of East and West Jersey. 

DELAWARE. 

2. This state is small in extent of territory, and has fewer 
inhabitants than any of the other states. 

It was first settled in 1627, by a party of Swedes and Fins, 
who called the country New Sweden. They landed near 

1. When and by whom was New Jersey settled ? 
When and by whom did the English make a settlement? 

2. When and bv whom was Delaware first settled ? 




56 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Cajpe Henlopen^ and were so much pleased with the place 
that they called it Paradise Point. 

They purchased land of the Indians, and lived happily for 
a number of years. The Indians were very friendly, and 
sometimes attended church ; but they were not very fond of 
going. They thought it was not good manners for the min- 
ister to make such long speeches, and not treat the company 
with brandy. 

In 1642, the Dutch Governor of Kew York told the set- 
tlers to leave the country, for he would not have them there. 
They concluded, however, that for all his big words, they 
should stay as long as they pleased. They let the Dutch 
exercise government over the country, but remained them- 
selves, and went on much as they had done before. The 
country afterwards passed, with ISTew Netherlands, into the 
hands of the English, and at a still later period, was joined 
to Pennsylvania, and was governed by Penn and his heirs. 

MARYLAND. 

3. Maryland was granted, by the English government, to 
Sir George Calvert, sometimes called Lord Baltimore. In a 
short time, he died, and the property passed to his son, who 
also became Lord Baltimore. 

Lord Baltimore was a catholic, and wished to have a place 

When did the Dutch governor tell them to leave 1 Did ihey obey ? 

Into whose hands did the country at length pass ? 

3. To whom was Maryland granted ? What did Lord Baltimore wish ? 



LORD BALTIMORE. 57 

where tliose holding the same religious views as himself could 
live and not be subjected to persecution. In a short time, a 
company of emigrants settled on the St. Mary's river, about 
ten miles above its junction with the Potomac ; these were 
followed by others, so that in a few years, a large number of 
persons found a home in Maryland. 

4. Lord Baltimore wisely permitted all religious sects to 
enjoy equal privileges, and allowed the people to make their 
own laws. He also paid the Indians for all the land he ob- 
tained from them, and for this reason the Indians never trou- 
bled the people of Maryland, while in some of the other 
colonies they butchered the inhabitants in great numbers. It 
is always best to deal honestly with every one. 

5. After a time, the Protestants came into power, and for- 
getting that the Catholics had tolerated all religious sects, 
established the church of England by law, and taxed all to 
support it. They persecuted the Catholics more than twenty 
years. They manifested a very bad spirit, and returned evil 
for good. 

PENNSYLVANIA. 

6. This country was named after William Penn, to whom 
it was granted by King Charles, in 1681, because Admiral 

When was the first settlement made 1 

4. What did Lord Baltimore permit 1 Did he pay the Indians for their 
land? 

5. Who at length came into power? What did they do? 

6. Whom was Pennsylvania named after ? 

3* 



58 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Penn, the father of William, had rendered important ser- 
vice to the English government. Penn was a Quaker. He 
loved to do good, yet he was persecuted on account of his 
religious opinions. At length he thought he would form a 
colony in America. He went to the king, and told him his 
plans. The king laughed at him, and assured him, unless he 
had soldiers, the Indians w^ould put him in their war-kettles 
before he had been an hour on their shores. Penn told him 
he did not want his soldiers, he should depend on something 
better — on the moral honesty of the Indians, from whom he 
intended to purchase what land he wanted. 

During this year, 1681, emigrants came over and settled in 
his territory, and the year following he came himself, with a 
large number of his own religious faith. He treated the 
Indians with great kindness, and invited them to come and 
see him. 

7. At the appointed time, several Indian chiefs, with their 
warriors, armed with bows and arrows, clubs and tomahawks, 
their faces painted, and their heads decked with feathers, 
met Penn and his Quaker friends beneath an elm tree. 

Penn told the Indians, they were all the children of one 
father, and the good spirit wished them to be friendly with 
each other. The Indians were delighted, and a treaty of 
peace was immediately formed, which was never broken. 

Who was Penn 1 What did he tell the king 1 When did he arrive in 
the country ? How did he treat the Indians ? 

7. Where did the Indians meet Penn and his friends ? What did they do ? 



PHILADELPHIA. 59 

How much better this Christian spirit, than to have driven 
the Indians from their grounds by force, and thus be in con- 
stant danger from their enmity. Kindness will accomplish 
what force can not. 

8. Penn now chose a place for the capital of his colony, 
between the Delaware and Schuylkill rivers. He laid out 
the streets in squares, and called the place Philadelphia, 
which means Brotherly love. Philadelphia is now a large 
and beautiful city. 

Penn, in the government of his colony, proved himself a 
wise and good man. He allowed all religious sects to flour- 
ish. The laws were just, and the people, in this enjoyment 
of civil and religious liberty, prosperous and happy. Penn 
died in Europe, in 1Y18. 

NORTH CAROLINA. 

9. About the year 1650, several emigrants from Virginia 
settled on the northern shore of Albermarle sound. In 1665, 
several English planters from Barbadoes settled on Cape 
Fear river, below the present city of Wilmington. 

The former place was called Albermarle, after the Duke of 
Albermarle, and the latter Clarendon, after Lord Clarendon. 

North Carolina suffered much from bad laws and govern- 
ors. The Indians frequently harrassed them, and butchered 



8. Where did Penn choose a place for the capital of his colony ? 
What did he call it ? 

9. When did several persons from Virginia settle in North Carolina 1 



60 HISTOKYOF THE UNITED STATES. 

many of their number. In 1713, the Tiiscaroras, a large and 
powerful tribe, came one night, by surprise, on some of the 
scattered settlement, and killed one hundred and thirty per- 
sons. The whites saw they were all in danger of being 
destroyed ; they therefore attacked the enemy with all their 
force, and drove them from the country. 

SOUTH CAROLINA. 

10. In 1760, a number of English emigrants settled on 
the Ashley river, just above the present city of Charleston. 
This place was afterwards called Old Charleston. They soon 
abandoned this place, and selected a beautiful spot, a short 
distance below, called Oyster Point, as the site of their fu- 
ture city. On that spot stands the present city of Charleston. 

GEORGIA. 

11. Georgia was settled the last of the thirteen colonies, 
by James Oglethorpe, who, with a company of emigrants, 
commenced the settlement of Savannah in 1733. Oglethorpe 
was a member of the English parliament. He had a very 
kind heart, and warmly sympathized with the poor, who 
were suffering for the common necessaries of life ; he easily 
persuaded several benevolent persons to unite with him in a 
plan of furnishing an asylum for these in the new world, 
where they could enjoy the comforts of life. 

When did the Tuscarora Indians attack them ? How many did they kill ? 

10. When and by whom was South Carolina settled ? At what place? 
What other place did they soon settle 1 

11. When and by whom was Georgia settled ? 



GEOKGTA. 61 



The early settlers in this state were exceedingly poor peo- 
ple ; notwithstanding they were governed with great justice, 
and enjoyed all the privileges of freemen, they were still 
unhappy with their lot. Oglethorpe soon learned that indo- 
lence was the cause of much of their poverty and suifering. 
Other emigrants of a better character soon arrived, and in a 
short time, Georgia assumed a flourishing condition. The 
colony lived on terms of friendship with the Indians, whose 
kind feelings Oglethorpe took an early opportunity to con- 
ciliate. In 1T43, Oglethorpe returned to England. 




62 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 



CHAPTEK XI. 

INDIAN WARS. 

KING Philip's war. 

ASSASOIT died in 1662, and his son Philip 
became chief of the allied tribes. These 
tribes occupied most of the territory now 
included in the ISTew England states. 
The spirit of jealousy which had been held in 
check by Massasoit, now broke forth. The In- 
'r^,f dians were anxious for war, that they might drive 
fS^ the whites out of the country, before they be- 

came too powerful to resist. An Indian mission- 
ary, who was a friend of the whites, informed them that 
the Indians would soon commence a war. For this he was 
put to death by some of his tribe, as a^traitor. The murderers 
were discovered, and executed by the whites. This enraged 
the Indians still more, and they were determined to fight. 
Pliilip, who was a noble, strong-minded man, saw the diffi- 
culties they would have to encoimter, and strongly opposed 
his men, but was finally compelled to yield. 

1. When did Massasoit die? Who now became chief of the allied 
tribes? What spirit was aroused? Why was the Indian missionary put 
to death ? 




KINGPHI lip's WAR. 63 



The Indians commenced the attack in 16Y5, at Swauzie. 
The war continued for a long time, and was one of the most 
cruel and bloody ever fought in America. Tillages were 
burned, women and children murdered, and their dead bodies 
hung upon trees. 

2. People could not attend church, or gather their harvests 
without taking their guns with them. Mothers, left alone 
with their little children, trembled at every sound, lest it 
should be the stealthy step of the Indian, who would soon 
burst upon them, from the surrounding forest, and commence 
the work of death. 

After having ravaged the western part of Massachusetts, 
Philip returned to Ehode Island, and obtained the aid of 
the N"arragansetts, and with three thousand Indians estab- 
lished himself in a great swamp in the southern part of the 
state. Here he was attacked by the whites, when a fierce 
and bloody battle took place, in which one thousand Indian 
warriors were killed, and a large number taken prisoners. 
This battle weakened the power of Philip, but increased his 
hate to the whites. 

With the remnant of his heroes, in the dead of winter, 
he wandered through the country, marking his path with 
fire and blood. Several detachments were sent out against 

When and where did the attack commence 1 

2. What is said of this war 1 How were people at home troubled by 
the war 1 

Of what tribe did Philip obtain assistance ? What followed ? 



64 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

him, and during the year two or three thousand Indians were 
killed or surrendered. Philip's power w^as now gone, but still 
he bore up until his wife and son were taken prisoners. The 
heart of the Indian monarch could bear no more. " My 
heart breaks," he said, "and I am ready to die." He was 
shortly after surrounded by a party under Captain Church, 
and in attempting to fly, was shot by a faithless Indian, w^ho 
said, as he stood over him, "You have been one very great 
man ; you have made many a man afraid of you ; but so 
big as you are, I will chop you to, pieces." Thus ended King 
Philip's War. 

Many of my young readers will think Philip was a very 
bad man, but they must remember that he was a savage — 
that he was a king, and thought the English wished to drive 
him from his country and take possession of it themselves. 
Philip fought to sustain his power and the territory which he 
saw was fast passing away from his tribe. 



4. About thirteen years after the close of King Philip's 
"War, another w^ar broke out, called King William's War, 
between the French and Indians on one side, and the northern 
English colonists on the other. During this war, the Indians 
were guilty of many cruelties. Several towns were burned, 

How many Indians were killed or surrendered during the year 1 How 
was Philip killed ? 

4. When did King William's war commence ? Between whom was it 
carried on 1 



65 

and a great many people cruelly murdered. One winter, in 
the month of February, a party of Indians attacked Schenec- 
tady, sixteen miles west of Albany. They came on a cold 
night, when the snow was very deep, burnt the place, and 
killed sixty of the inhabitants. Near the close of the war, 
the Indians attacked Haverhill, Mass. A Mr. Dustan saw 
them coming, and rushing into the house, he collected seven 
of his children, placed them in the road, and told them to 
run. His wife, with a little babe, not a week old, he was 
compelled to leave behind. Mounting his horse, he rode 
after his children, but he had not gone far before he saw the 
Indians pursuing him. His first thought was to place the 
child he loved best on his horse and make his escape. But 
they were all equally dear to him, and the father's heart 
refused to leave one behind. Turning and firing upon the 
Indians, he covered the retreat of his children, and finally 
made his escape. Mrs. Dustan was taken prisoner, her babe 
killed, and she carried 150 miles into the wilderness. She 
afterwards made her escape and returned to her home. This 
war lasted seven years, and ended in 1697. 

QUEEN ANNE's WAK. 

M 

Shortly after King William's War, another war broke out 
between England and France, called Queen Anne's War, 
This also extended to America, and was attended with much 
suffering to the colonists. 

What towns were attacked by the Indians 1 What is said of Mr. Dus- 
tan fleeing with his children ? 



66 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES 



In 1744, France and England again engaged in war, and 
the French and Indian colonists followed their example. 
During this war, Louisbnrgh, a strong French fortress, situated 
on the island of Cape Breton, was captured by a body of 
J^ew England troops, aided by an English fleet. We shall 
speak hereafter of another war, called the French and Indian 
war. 




FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 67 




CHAPTEE XII. 
FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 

^ FTEE a few years of comparative peace, the 
colonists were again compelled to endm'e 
the horrors of war. England and France 
claimed most of the territory now occupied 
by the United States and Canada. The 
French possessions in the north reached from the 
mouth of the St. Lawrence to Montreal. They had 
erected trading-houses on Lake Ontario, and settled 
New Orleans at the south. Claiming the vast amount 
of territory watered by the Mississippi, they determined to 
connect their possessions in the north with the south, by 
establishing what was called a chain of posts, consisting of 
little settlements or forts within a short distance of each 
other, from Ontario to New Orleans. 

2. A company of traders from London and Virginia had 
obtained a grant from the King of England of a large 
amount of land on the Ohio river, and had erected trading- 
houses there. Disputes between this company and the 

1. What were the French possessions in America ? How did they wish 
to connect their possessions ? 

2. Where had a company of traders from London and Virginia settled ? 



68 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

French, led to the commencement of hostilities between 
England and France. 

During this contest, Washington, then a mere boy but 
twenty-one years of age, showed by his foresight and judg- 
ment, his coolness and bravery on the battle field, that he 
would earn a glorious name in the history of his country. 

3. The governor of Yirginia, wishing to employ some one 
to carry a letter to the French commander on the Ohio, de- 
manding the reason of hostilities, Washington, notwithstand- 
ing his youth, was selected for the purpose. The distance 
was four hundred miles, two hundred of which were through 
a wilderness, inhabited only by hostile savages. On the way 
his horse failed. With one companion, a mnsket in his 
hand, and a pack on his shoulder, he now pursued his way 
on foot, reached the French fort, and gave the letter to the 
commander. He returned in safety, after a fatiguing and 
dangerous journey. 

4. The next year, 1Y54:, was marked by the bloody and 
terrible defeat of General Braddock. He had been sent from 
Ireland to Yirginia with two regiments of foot. He was 
brave, but imprudent, and unfortunately despised the colo- 
nists, who knew much more about Indian warfare than 
himself. 

What was the cause of the war ? 

3. Whom did the governor send with a letter ? What happened to h>m 
on his way 1 

4. What General was defeated in 1754 ? What place did he wish to 
attack ■? 



DEFEAT OF BRADDOCK. 



Rejecting the advice of Washington, who was his aid-de- 
camp, to send forward small parties in advance, to see that 
the way was clear, he rushed forward to attack Fort Du 
Quesne, till he was suddenly attacked by 400 Indians, who 
had concealed themselves among the bushes and trees. A 
total defeat ensued. Xot only was Braddock mortally 
wounded, but every officer on horseback, with the exception 
of Washington, was shot down. Washington had two horses 
shot under him, and four bullets lodged in his coat. Had 
Braddock followed the advice of Washington, victory instead 
of defeat might have been the result. 

5. The expedition of Governor Shirley of Massachusetts, 
which shortly followed the defeat of Braddock, was equally 
unsuccessful, and Oswego was taken by the French under 
Montcalm. 

6. In 1759, the British were everywhere successful. The 
important post of Niagara was taken by Sir William John- 
son, and the reduction of Quebec attempted by Wolfe. 

On the night of the 12th of September, General Wolfe 
with his troops landed from boats, about half a mile below 
the city, and dispersing the guards, commenced their fatiguing 
march up the hill. 

By early dawn, Wolfe with his little army of five thousand 
men stood on the heights of Abraham, in bold defiance of 
Montcalm, the French, general, and his overwhelming forces. 

What advice did Washington give ? What was the result of the battle 1 
5. What is said of the expedition of Shirley ? By whom was Oswego 
taken ? 



70 



HISTORY OV THE UNITED STATES. 




British army approaching the Heights of Abraham. 

A terrible battle ensued. Both Wolfe and Montcalm were 
mortally wounded early in the contest. Wolfe, while strug- 
gling in the agonies of death, caught the shout of "They 
fly, they fly !" Eaising his head he asked, " Who fly ?" On 
being told The French, " then," said he, " I die happy," and 
expired. Five days after, the city surrendered to the Eng- 
lish. In 1763, peace was established, — France ceding to 
Great Britain all her northern settlements in America. 



6. What post was taken in 1759 1 By whom ? Who attempted to take 
Quebec 1 When did he ascend the heights of Abraham ? Who were killed 
in the battle 1 What did Wolfe say when he heard the cry of They fly 1 
When was peace declared ? 



CAUSES OF THE EEVOLUTION. 



Yl 



CHAPTEK XIII. 

CAUSES OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 

OU have now been told of the discovery of 
America, and the settlements made by dif- 
ferent nations, and know why the Puritans 
and other settlers were willing to leave their 
homes in Europe and come to this far distant land 
of forests and prairies. !N"otwithstanding their 
privations and struggles, they were happy, be- 
cause they could worship God as they thought 
best, and enjoy the rights they prized so dearly. 
At the time preceding the Revolution, they were in great 
prosperity. They had nearly doubled in population and 
wealth in twenty years. As far as the eye could reach they 
beheld land as fertile as any upon which the sun ever shone, 
and none but the idle and vicious need want for daily bread. 
2. The rapid progress of the colonies in commerce excited 
the wonder of Europe and the jealousy of England. Is it 

1. Of what have you been studying? Why were our forefathers happy 
in America 1 What is said of them at the time just before the Revolution 1 

2. What did the people of Europe and England think of the prosperity 
of the colonies 1 / 




72 HISTORY or THE UNITED STATES 



not strange that the motherland could feel so unkindly to 
her absent children ? What would you think of a mother, 
living in wealth and splendor in England, who had several 
kind and dutiful children separated from all these luxuries 
and comforts, living in a far-distant land ? Suppose these 
absent children worked hard all day long, not only to support 
their own little home circles, but often sent out sums of 
money to make their rich mother richer still, and she, instead 
of rewarding their obedience to her commands, and their 
filial affection, demanded larger sums, and took away from 
them many valuable rights. Suppose, too, that foes came 
around to insult their parent, and the children rose and suc- 
ceeded in subduing these enemies. But these kind acts and 
sufferings were not long remembered, and the tyrannical 
mother boldly and shamefully increased their privations. 

They felt keenly their privations, and were in much trouble. 
Petition after petition was sent to the haughty mother, but 
these were only noticed by fresh insults and grievances. Tlie 
bonds of a mother's love are strong about them still, and they 
are unwilling to break them. At last, driven to desperation, 
they feel that their mother is really their worst foe, and with 
trembling hands they break away the bond of union, and 
say, Henceforth we must go on our own way alone. We will 
he free and independent ! What would you think of a mo- 
ther so cruel ? Would you say these absent children were to 
blame for asserting their rights ? 

3. England acted like such a mother to her colonies in 
America. They called England their motherland, and dearly 



CAUSES OF THE REVOLUTION. 73 

they prized her laws and people. It was her avarice and 
ambition which led her into the fatal error of oppressing 
children who would have shed their best blood for her in 
time of need. It was only after a series of cruel acts that 
tlie American colonies thought of abandoning the protection 
of the home government. By England's unholy actions they 
were driven off, and compelled to rear through scenes of suf- 
fering a home in this new world. 

4. You will now be told of dreadful battles and many 
bloody scenes. War is a great evil, and some wars are very 
wicked. The American Revolutionary War stands out among 
the other Eevolutions of this world as a contest for life, 
liberty, and happiness. Our forefathers appealed to God for 
the justice of their cause, and we will show you that God 
heard their cries and broke the tyrant's chain. 

3. How did England treat her absent children 1 

4. What is said of war ? Was the American Revolution a wicked war 1 
To whom did our forefathers appeal for aid ? 

4 



u 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CHAPTEK XIY. 

OR a time the colonists bore their injuries 
without complaint. It is surprising that 
they submitted patiently so long. As early 
as 1651, the acts of the British Parliament 
were unjust and oppressive. Fearing our 
forefathers would become too prosperous and rich, 
they prohibited the importation of sugar and mo- 
lasses, without the payment of a large sum, called 
a dutj/^ to the government. They would not allow 
the introduction from one colony into another of hats and 
woollen goods of their own manufacture. They would not 
allow hatters to have, at one time, more than two apprentices, 
and forbade the manufacture of steel, and passed many other 
grievous acts. 

2. The colonists did not murmur. They regarded Eng- 
hmd as their parent state, to which they were bound by the 
dearest ties, and were even happy in being able to advance 
her grandeur and prosperity. 




1. How did the colonists at first bear their injuries 1 What unjust acts 
did the English pass ? Why did they fear the Americans would become 
too prosperous 1 

2. How did the. colonists behave at first ? 



CAUSES OF THE KEVOLUTION. Y5 

But England was not contented that the colonists should 
purchase at a great price clothing and several other arti- 
cles used by three millions of people. She forgot the blood 
and treasure expended by them during the last war, and went 
on adding outrage to oppression, and converting a nation of 
friends into enemies. 

3. The tax-gatherers had not been very strict in collecting 
the duties, and in 1761, orders came from Great Britain that 
these officers should be more strict in collecting taxes. Then 
there was a great talk about '^ seai'ch warrants^'' and ''^ writs 
of assistancey These writs gave the officers of the king 
power to search for articles suspected of having been brought 
into the colonies without the payment of the required duties. 
Then the colonists began to complain of such violent and 
illegal measures. About this time James Otis, who had 
been Advocate General for the crown, came forward and 
disdained to hold an office where he might be called on to 
assist in oppressing his brethren. He delivered a speech 
against the ''Writs of Assistance," and boldly proclaimed 
the great maxim — " That taxation without representation is 
tyranny P 

4. When you grow older and wiser, you will better understand 
what this maxim means. Mr. Otis meant to make the people 
of Great Britain understand that they had no right to take 

3. What orders came from England in 1761 % What were the writs of 
assistance, &c. % What is said of James Otis ? What great maxim did he 
boldly proclaim ? 

4. What did the maxim mean % 



76 HISTORY OF THE UNITED ST A T E S . 

away the property of the colonists without their consent. 
And they had not a right — it was dishonesty and oppression. 
" Then and there," says President Adams, " American Inde- 
pendence was born. Tlien and there was the first scene in 
the first act of opposition to the arbitrary claims of Great 
Britain. Every man of an immense and crowded audience 
seemed to go aw^ay as I did, ready to take up arms against 
writs of assistance." Mr. Adams adds, in another place, 
" I do say, in the most solemn manner, that Mr. Otis' oration 
against writs of assistance, breathed into this country the 
breath of life." 

5. Massachusetts has the honor of being the first province 
in which the people boldly declared that they w^ould not sub- 
mit to the tyranny of the King of England. Their fathers 
braved the perils of the pathless ocean to seek a free and 
happy home, and nobly their children fought to keep those 
homes happy and free. 

What did President Adams say about James Otis' oration 1 

6. What is said of Massachusetts ? 



CAUSES OF THE REVOLUTION 



T7 



CHAPTEE XY. 

HE English people were determined to make 
the colonies submit to their cruel laws, and 
said they had a right to make laws for and 
to tax them. This was so much the public 
talk that a great and wise English minister, 
named Pitt, said, "Even the chimney-sweepers on 
the streets talked boastingly of their subjects in Ame- 
rica. 

2. In 1Y65, the celebrated Stamp Act was passed. 
By this act, the people of Great Britain thought they would 
gather a vast amount of money. Their treasury was empty, 
and all over England the people were complaining of the 
heavy taxes they had to pay to support the government. So 
the Prime Minister, Lord Grenville, resolved to get some 
money by taxing the Americans. He ordered that they 
should buy of the English, at a very high price, all the paper 
they wished to use for notes, bonds, deeds, almanacs, news- 
papers, &c. This paper was all to have on it the stamp of the 




1. What is said of the English people ? What did Mr. Pitt say about 
the chimney-sweepers ? 

2. What was the stamp act % Why did the English make the stamp 
act? 



78 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

crown, and the people were to pay a tax for it, and they were 
to be severely punished if they used any other. 

3. At this act, there was a general burst of indignation 
among the colonists, and forthwith they, with one voice, de- 
termined that the hour for action had come. They were 
willing to be taxed by their own legislatures whenever the 
state required it ; but, as we have said before, they were un- 
willing to have their money forced away from them, espe- 
cially to see it lavished on wicked and tyrannical court 
favorites — the open enemies of America. Patrick Henry, a 
bold orator, delivered a celebrated speech before the Yirginia 
Assembly, which animated the oppressed people. 

Everybody talked of Patrick Henry's speech ;* but many 
who were afterwards good patriots, still loved the mother- 
land too much to agree immediately with the sentiments in 
his bold speech. 

4. At last the different colonies, one after the other, de- 
termined to unite themselves in a kind of Congress, that they 
might together talk over their troubles, and consult about 
sending a petition to the king imploring relief. The legis- 
lature of Massachusetts, after resolving in favor of a Conti- 

Was the stamped paper high-priced ] 

3. How did the colonists like the stamp act 1 Were they willing to be 
taxed for good purposes ? What is said of Patrick Henry 1 

4. At last what did the diiferent colonies determine to do ? What did 
the legislature of Massachusetts do 1 

* See Guernsey's School History. — Page 195. 



THESTAMPACT. T9 

nental Congress, appointed a day for its meeting, and sent 
letters to the speakers of the other assemblies, inviting them 
all to join. 

5. They were very happy to accept the invitation, and at 
the appointed day, which was the first Monday in October, 
1765, the First Colonial Congress assembled at New York. 
A grand moral spectacle was there presented to the world. 
For fourteen days they consulted together, and what they 
did, will be the admiration of every true American to the 
latest generation. 

If any of my young friends wish to know what business 
they transacted, they may ask their teachers to be kind 
enough to let them read the Declaration of Eights, the 
Petition to the King, and the Memorial to hoth Houses of 
Parliament. 

6. A cargo of stamps and stamped paper arrived during 
the summer, and in Boston, New York, and Philadelphia, 
great tumults were excited. All the merchants of the sea- 
port towns agreed not to import any goods from Great Britain 
as long as this odious stamp act should be in force. Neither 
would they use one sheet of the stamped paper, and for a 
time business was suspended. When the first of November 
came, which was the day for the stamp act to go into opera- 
tion, there were strange sights to be seen. It almost seemed 

5, What is said of the first Continental Congress ? 

6, What cargo arrived during the sunimer ? What did many of the 
merchants agree not to do ? Would they use the stamp paper ? What 
happened on the first of November ? 



80 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

as if the nation had lost its best friend. Everybody was 
sad ; even the colors of the shipping at Boston were hoisted 
half-mast — the bells tolled — but few of the shops were open, 
and the people walked about with troubled looks. 

Y. At Portsmouth a coffin was made, and on the lid was 
inscribed Liberty, aged 145, while a mournful procession, 
with unbraced drums and minute guns, followed it to the 
grave. An orator delivered a short address, and suddenly 
the coffin was taken up, and on the lid, Lihertij Revived, was 
seen. Then the bells rung merrily, and joy lighted every 
countenance. 

In New York the people called the stamp act " England'' s 
folly and America's ruin'' 

8. At last Great Britain saw by these mobs and tumults 
that it would be advisable to repeal the stamp act. Then 
there was great joy all over America, and also in England, 
among the friends of America. Business went on again as 
usual, and the voice of praise was heard from a grateful 
people. Public thanksgivings were held, and the people of 
Yirginia talked about erecting a statue to the king. If Eng- 
land had from this time treated the colonies with honesty 
and kindness, they would have remained loyal. 

9. Great Britain persisted in declaring that parliament had 



7, What did the people of Portsmouth do to show their dislike to the 
stamp act ? What did the people of New York call the stamp act ? 

8, Were the people happy when Great Britain repealed the stamp act 1 
How did they show their joy ? 

9, What did Great Britain persist in declaring ? 



THESTAMPACT. 81 

a right to tax the colonies in all cases whatsoever. This they 
in turn denied. 

10. Another canse of alarm was an act called the Military 
Act^ which said that troops sent out from England should be 
furnished with certain provisions and lodging at the expense 
of the colonists. How do you think you would like it now 
to have a number of foreign soldiers, some of them very 
wicked and untidy men, living at your houses, and doing 
just as they chose with your father's property ? 

11. Tlie stamp act was repealed in 1766, but in May, 1T6T, 
a duty was laid on glass, paper, painters' colors, and tea. 
Then followed another very oppressive act, establishing a 
Board of Trade in the colonies, under the legislation of par- 
liament. Then quickly followed another act, prohibiting the 
governor and assembly of New York from passing any legis- 
lative act for any purpose whatever, until they should furnish 
certain supplies to the English troops. 

12. You will easily see what kind of spirit Great Britain 
exercised towards her colonies. She was jealous and very 
avaricious. She could not bear to see the Americans pros- 
pering, and tried to keep them poor by taxing articles which 
they used a great deal. 

What a mean spirit. I hope none of my little readers are 
of a jealous or avaricious disposition. 

10. What was the Military Act? 11. On what articles was a duty laid 
in 1767 ? Did the English pass other unjust acts ? 12. How did the 
English feel towards her absent children % 

4* 



82 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES 




CHAPTEK XYl. 

NCE again the people of Massacliiisetts drew 
lip a loyal and humble petition to the king, 
bnt this too was treated with scorn. In 
May, the odious officers of Custom arrived, 
and soon after acts of violence increased, 
and the Governor of Boston advised General Gage to 
send for British soldiers to awe the people. Before 
long, the people ^f Boston saw with alarm seven 
hundred red-coats landing, with muskets charged, 
bayonets fixed, drums beating, and colors flying, just as if 
they were on the domain of an enemy. Tlie Bostonians re- 
fused to provide homes for the soldiers, who were, some of 
them, very ill-behaved, and they were obliged to erect tents 
on the common, and some were even lodged in good old 
Faneuil Hall and the State House. 

2. This displeased the Bostouians very much to see two of 
their favorite public buildings used by such characters. 



1. How did the king treat the next humble petition of the colonists? 
What alarmed the people of Boston ? 

Were the people willing to have the soldiers in their houses 1 
Where did they lodge ? 



CAUSESOF THE REVOLUTION. 83 

Scarcely a day passed without some act of violence. Even 
the Sabbath day was profaned. These wicked soldiers loved 
to provoke the '' Yankee rebels," and they chose this holy 
day for their vilest scenes. 

3. In February, 1769, parliament, in an address to the 
king, requested that all criminals in America might be sent 
over to England for trial. This, even a child can understand, 
was very unjust. To carry an accused person away from his 
home to a distant land to be tried by a jury of strangers, 
subject to all the disadvantages that result from want of 
friends, want of witnesses, and want of money. Even some 
of the English oratore denounced this measure as " cruel to 
the Americans, and injurious to England." They declared 
that they must "either retrace their steps and conciliate the 
colonies by kindness, or bear the fearful responsibility of 
driving loyal subjects to open rebellion." 

4. These obnoxious measures caused so much disturbance, 
that in 1770 a parliamentarj'' repeal took place, except three 
pence per pound on tea. ' This did not satisfy the Americans, 
for it was the same ^rincij^le still. If Great Britain had a 
right to tax one article, she had to tax a hundred. They 



2. Did the British soldiers remember the Sabbath day 1 

3. Do you think criminals in America were jnstly tried by the English? 
Did some of the great men in England say the king did wrong when he 
oppressed the Americans ? 

4. What repeal took place in 1770? What article was still taxed ? Why 
were the Americans dissatisfied ? What did they say ? 



84 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

unanimously opposed every attempt of Great Britain to force 
money from tliem. 

5. l^ot only did our grandfathers oppose the tax on tea, 
but our grandmothers and great aunts, in a body, declared 
they " would not drink any foreign tea, hoping," as they said, 
" to frustrate a plan which tends to deprive the wJwle comomt- 
nity of all that is valuahle in life^ I^ow and then an old 
lady could be discovered sipping secretly the much-loved 
beverage, but all patriot women were ashamed to be caught 
in the act. 

6. There was one man named Mr. Lillie of Boston, who 
cared more for gold than he did for liberty, and he offered 
tea for sale. A mob of men and boys collected before his 
door, and, by their conduct, so much exasperated one of 
Lillie's friends, that he discharged his musket into the crowd, 
and killed a boy named Snyder. His death created a great 
excitement, and he was everywhere called \k\Q first martyr to 
liberty. His body was borne to the grave by six of his play- 
fellows, accompanied by a procession of between four and 
five hundred school boys, and about fifteen hundred of the 
inhabitants. 

7. This was in February ; and on the 5th of March, there 
was an afi'ray between some of the citizens of Boston and 
his majesty's soldiers. Several of the inhabitants w^ere killed, 

5. Would our grandmothers and aunts drink taxed tea? 

6. What is said of Mr. Lillie in Boston ? What sad accident happened 1 

7. What happened the following March? 



CAUSES OF THE REVOLUTION. 85 



and others wounded. At the burial of the killed, all the 
bells of Boston and the adjacent towns tolled a solemn knell. 
The deep tones found an echo in many hearts, aroused them 
to immediate action, and awakened the bitterest condemna- 
tion of the conduct of the British troops and the British 
ministry. 

8. The May-poles of former times were christened " Liberty 
poles," and all over the land a voice of dissatisfaction was 
heard. 

Committees were appointed in the large cities, and in every 
village and hamlet, to send word to each other of every im- 
portant movement, so that the patriot hearts might beat with 
one throb all over the country. 

9. During this year, a large quantity of tea was shipped 
to Charleston, Philadelphia, New York, and Boston. But 
the Americans had all determined, if possible, to prevent it 
being landed. The vessels which brought it to Philadelphia 
and Isew York, w^ere compelled to return with their whole 
cargo to England. The cargo shipped to Charleston was 
landed, but was never sold or used. At length, two ships 
arrived at Boston, heavily laden with tea. The governor 
refused to give the ships a permit to depart, and the people 
stoutly refused to have it landed. Day after day passed on, 



8. What were the many poles called ? 

9. How did the people of Charleston, New York, and Philadelphia, re- 
ceive the cargoes of teas sent to them 1 What happened in Boston when 
the ships of tea came near the porf? 



86 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

until the 16th of December, when a party, disguised as Mo- 
hawk Indians, accompanied by a mob, shouting " To Griffin's 
wharf! Boston harbor a tea-pot to-night" — boarded 
the ships, broke open the hatches, hoisted the chests of tea 
out, broke them in pieces, and triumphantly emptied their 
contents into the dock. AVhat a strange tea-party ! 

10. Imagine the scene. It was a moonlight night. Fif- 
teen or twenty busy forms, in Indian costume, headed this 
motley crew, and with them were about one hundred and 
forty, most of them with blackened faces, busily engaged. 
So busily did they work, that within three hours they emptied 
in the harbor tliree himdred and forty-tioo chests of tea. Then, 
calmly and quietly, they all marched through the town, and 
they said it was the stillest night that Boston had enjoyed for 
many months. 

11. When the English were told of this bold act, they 
were struck with amazement. They were very angry at the 
Bostonians, asserting that Boston was the ringleader in every 
riot, and the centre of every tumult in the colonies, and forth- 
with they determined to punish them ; so they passed three 
odious bills, one of which was called the " Boston Port Bill^^ 
by which the port of Boston w^as closed, and its trade 
ruined. 

What happened on the I6th of December % 

10. Describe the Boston tea-party. 
Was it a noisy tea-party ? 

11. How did England like the behavior of the Bostonians? 
How did they punish the people of Boston ? 



CAUSES OF THE KEVOLUTION. 87 

12. By order of a second bill, the charter of the colony 
was altered, so that the executive power was taken away 
from the people, and the nomination of all important offices 
vested in the crown. The third bill ordered that any person 
indicted for a capital offence, might be removed to another 
colony, or even to England, for trial. The vindictive spirit 
of Great Britain could no longer be doubted. The sad truth 
was now evident. She was no friend to her once loyal and 
devoted provinces, but a bitter and relentless foe. Property, 
liberty, and life, were wantonly subjected to the caprice of 
government, and the cherished right of trial by jury, so dear 
to Englishmen, was unfeelingly torn from them. 

13. You have now been told a few of the causes which 
provoked your ancestors to rebel against the home govern- 
ment. We hope you have thoroughly learned the preceding 
pages, and that, through the kind instruction of your teach- 
ers, you are by this time able to answer a number of ques- 
tions about the causes of the Eevolutionary "War. We are 
soon to tell you of dreadful battles, and we have told you 
more of the causes leading to this long and bloody war be- 
cause we do not wish to have your young hearts become 
acquainted with such horrid tales of blood and murder, 
without first explaining to you why your ancestors were 
willing to suffer so much. It ivas for Freedom — for Liherty. 

12. What other odious bills did they pass to punish the Bostonians? Did 
the Americans now believe the English were their friends "? 

13. Why were your ancestors willing to fight such horrid battles ? 



88 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Ah, little do you know yet what liberty means. Had your 
ancestors been defeated in their struggle for liberty, a far 
different fate would have been yours now. 




CAUSES OF THE EEVOLUTION. 



89 



CHAPTEK XYII. 

ETITIONS from the American colonists to 

tlie King of England, were sent again and 

again, begging him to remove from them 

such oppressive laws and taxes. But to all 

their petitions he turned away with contempt, only 

to increase their burdens. 

2. At last they publicly appealed to the King of 
kings — the Sovereign Kuler of the Universe. This 
good and gracious King is ever willing to listen tc 
the cry of the heavy laden and distressed. We believe God 
heard the prayers of the American people, gave them wisdom 
and bravery, and raised up friends to assist them in their 
arduous struggle for freedom. 

The first of June was observed as a day of fasting and 
prayer by the people of Virginia. They also jDroposed to 
call a Congress of Deputies from all the colonies, in order to 
form some plan of union in their present trying situation. 




1. What did the colonists petition the king to do? 
What did he do? 

2. To whom did they at length appeal? What day did the people of 
Virginia spend in fasting ? What did they propose to do ? 



90 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

3. While the Yirginians were imploring help from God, 
the port of Boston was closed, so that no vessel could enter, 
and in a few days after, no vessel was allowed to depart. 
Tlie streets of Boston were thronged with " red coats^^ as the 
British soldiers were called, and many more red coats soon 
arrived from Halifax, Quebec, New York, and Ireland. 

4. General Gage feared the " Rehels^^ as the colonists were 
termed, would soon resort to arms. Under pretext of pre- 
venting his men from running away. General Gage placed a 
strong guard on the neck of land which connects Boston 
with the main land. 

5. On the 5th of September, the General Congress met at 
Philadelphia, and fifty-five delegates from twelve colonies 
were appointed. 

This body of men were remarkable for great intellect, 
sound judgment, and pure patriotism. They published a 
declaration of their rights, formed an association not to use 
or purchase British goods, sent a petition to the king, and an 
address to the people of England, and one to the Canadians, 
and one to the colonies. 

6. Great excitement prevailed throughout the states. Mills 

3. What is said of Boston 1 

4. What did General Gage fear ? 

Under what pretext did he place a guard between Boston and the main 
land? 

5. Where and when did the General Congress meet? 

How many delegates from how many colonies were appointed ? 
What did this body publish ? 



CAUSES OF THE REVOLUTION. 91 

were erected for making gunpowder, and manufactories set 
up for making all kinds of arms. 

Concord, eighteen miles from Boston, had been named as 
a depot to receive arms and ammunition. Twelve thousand 
men were formed into military companies as Minute men, 
who were to be ready to march against the enemy at a 
minute's warning. 

7. While these alarming scenes were occurring in America, 
Doctor Franklin, and the other colonial agents in England, 
were doing much in favor of the cause of their oppressed 
countrymen. 

The last petition to the king was treated with the same ill 
feeling as others had been, and the last faint hope of recon- 
ciliation faded forever away. The contest was now hurrying 
on. The Americans were now to battle with the armies and 
fleets of haughty England. They were confident that their 
cause was just, and that, even though poor and ignorant of the 
science of war, they were supported from above. " Thrice 
armed is he who has his quarrel just." 

6. What mills were erected throughout the states 1 What place was a 
depot to receive arms, &c. 1 How many men were formed into companies 
as Minute men 1 

7. What was Franklin doing at this time 1 How was the last petition 
treated ? Was there any longer hope 1 



92 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CHAPTER XYIII. 

ISr Massacliusetts tlie people were told that the 
king called them Rebels^ and that he intended 
to punish them severely for the bold stand 
they had taken. Some few of the timid ones, 
who loved the king and his cruel government 
still, were called Tories^ and all those who rebelled 
were called Wliigs. 

2. The Bostonians were very closely watched by 
the Tories and the Governor, and they had to resort 
to laughable ways to send arms to the country people, who 
needed them. Sometimes they piled cannon balls and mus- 
kets in a farm-wagon, and covered them with manure. The 
bold market women would often secrete powder in their 
baskets, and many a candle-box full of cartridges was carried 
through the English posts. 

3. At last General Gage found out that there was a depot 
for ammunition at Concord. He detached some wild-looking 
soldiers, called grenadiers, and some light infantry, under the 




1. What were those called who adhered to the king ? Those who re- 
belled % 

2. How did the Bostonians sometimes send arms to the country people? 

3. What did General Gage ascertain % What did he do ? 



CAUSES OF THE EEVOLUTION. 93 

command of Lieut. Colonel Smith and Major Pitcairn, to go 
to Concord and destroy the depot. It is said they were told 
to seize two great patriots, Samuel Adams and John Hancock. 
The Bostonians loved these good men and sent them timely 
warning, and they escaped. Orders were also sent to dis- 
tribute the ammunition and arms before the grenadiers 
arrived. Messengers secretly left Boston for Concord, and 
succeeded in reaching Lexington, (six miles from Concord) a 
town on the road, wdiere they aroused the people. Bella 
were rung, and cannons were fired to alarm the adjacent 
country, and soon troops of Minute men came flocking in, 
and at sunrise on the morning of the 19tli of April, about 
seventy had assembled near the village church. That morn- 
ing sun rose upon the opening scene in the drama of the 
Revolution. Scarcely had its golden beams illuminated half 
of the village church, when a body of soldiers came march- 
ing proudly before the provincials. Major Pitcairn exclaimed, 
in an imperious voice, " JDis^erse^ you Rebels ! Throw down 
your arms and disperse /" 

They did not obey. Then, springing forward, he dis- 
charged a pistol, and brandishing a glittering sword, ordered 
his soldiers to fire. The soldiers with loud huzzas ran up, 
and some muskets were fired, which killed and wounded 
several. 

4. The small number of provincials would not allow of 

Who were they told to seize ? Who sent them warning ? What place 
did the messengers reach ? W^hat did he then do ? What followed % 



94 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

any opposition, and they were obliged to disperse. The 
British now renewed their march to Concord, where they 
destroyed the stores ; but they were harassed by the Ameri- 
cans, who fired npon them from houses and fences in every 
direction. Finding themselves in a dangerous situation, the 
British thought best to begin to retreat. 

At Lexington they found a body of brave provincials in 
arms to receive them. If General Gage had not at this time 
sent them more troops, the Americans would have destroyed 
them entirely. 

5. This is the first battle of the Eevolution. Here was 
the first blood shed by our ancestors in their struggle for 
liberty. On the 19th of April, 1775, sixty-five British sol- 
diers, and fifty Americans, were stretched out cold in death 
under the green trees, and along the road-side, while in dif- 
ferent directions the wounded were writhing in pain. One 
hundred and eighty English soldiers were wounded, and 
thirty-eight Americans. 

4. What did the British do when they reached Concord'? What did the 
Americans do 1 Who did the British find at Lexington 1 

5. Where was the first battle of the Revolution 1 How many were 
killed and wounded? 



CAUSES OF THE REVOLUTION 



95 



CHAPTEE XIX 




EPOPvTS of the battle of Lexington flew like 
wild-fire all over the country. From every 
direction volunteers were seen, who express- 
ed their determination to fight valiantly for 
their country. 
The Provincial Congress was in session at the 
time of this battle, at Watertown, about ten miles 
from Boston. As soon as the fearful story was told 
them, they voted that an army of 13,600 men should 
be raised in the province, and they chose General Ward to 
be their commander. They invited the other 'Ne\Y England 
colonies to furnish each a number of soldiers, so that an 
army of 30,000 men in all might be raised. The command 
of this army was to be given to Gen. Thomas. 

2. Tlie people of New Jersey, on hearing the news of the 
battle of Lexington, took possession of the provincial trea- 
sure. In Maryland and South Carolina, the people seized all 

1. What did the Provincial Congress do when they heard of the battle 
of Lexington 1 Who" did they choose as commander 1 What did they in- 
vite other New England provinces to do "? Who was appointed commander 
of the army 1 

2. What did the people of New Jersey do when they heard of the battle ? 
What did Maryland and South Carolina do ? 



96 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

tlie ammunition and military stores, and placed them in the 
hands of soldiers in pay of the province. Yarions expe- 
ditions for seizing arms and ammunition were planned. 
Ticonderoga on Lake Champlain, and Crown Point, were 
surprised and taken by a very brave officer, of whom you 
will learn more. His name was Colonel Ethan Allen. As 
brave and wise as Colonel Allen was, he was willing to receive 
assistance from a boy.'^ He was not like General Braddock. 
It was nearly midnight when they arrived on the lake op- 
posite Ticonderoga. After consulting a while as to what route 
to pursue, they found a boy who was willing to be their guide 
to the fort. This brave fellow marched proudly at their 
head, and at the dawn of day, Allen and only eighty-three 
men entered the covered way of the fort. The sleeping 
garrison were aroused by a tremendous shout, and, supposing 
a great number of invaders at their door, they were glad to 
surrender. 

3. In May re-inforcements arrived from England, with 
three celebrated British generals, Howe, Burgoyne, and 
Clinton. General Gage issued a proclamation, ofiering to 
the people the alternative of submission, or war, and extended 

Who planned the taking of Ticonderoga and Crown Point 1 
What is said of the boy who acted as guide ? 

3. When did the English receive re-inforcements from England 1 Under 
whose command ? What proclamation did General Gage issue ? 

* The boy's name -was Nathan Beman. He died in Franklin County, Wew 
York, at the age of ninety years. He lived to see the union increase from 13 to 
30 states, and from three millions of people to twenty millions. — Losdng. 



THEREVOLUTION. 97 

pardon to all who would laj down their arms. From this 
offer, Samuel Adams and John Hancock were excepted. 

4. Intelligence was received of the intention of General 
Gage to post a part of his troops within a few days on a 
promontory, just at the entrance of the peninsula at Charles- 
town, called Bunker's Hill. It was deemed important that 
our troops should possess themselves of this eminence before 
the enemy could occupy it. 

5. Accordingly, orders were given to Colonel Prescott, a 
veteran of the last war, with 1,000 men, to march silently 
on the evening of the 16th of June, and throw up entrench- 
ments on the heights. By some mistake, the fortification 
was erected on Breed's Hill, high and large like the other, 
but, being nearer Boston, was less capable of being defended. 
With so much diligence and silence was the work carried on, 
that between midnight and the dawn of day, a great work 
was accomplished. This was intended to shield them from 
the fire of the enemy. Although the British vessels were 
lying very near, the troops on board of them had no intima- 
tion of the work until the rising sun beamed upon the newly 
erected fort. 

6. They immediately commenced a tremendous cannonade. 
Bombs and shot were incessantly rolling among the hard- 

Who were excepted ? 

4. Why did our troops take possession of Bunker Hill ? 

5. What orders were given Colonel Prescott 1 What mistake was made ? 
What was done before the next morning 1 

6. What did the English do ? 

5 



98 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

working provincials. On tliey toiled, not heeding the firing, 
■ — unassisted by others, and not refreshed with provisions 
previous to the battle. About noon the red coats were seen 
in great commotion, crossing the river from Boston to Charles- 
town. About three thousand, under the command of Gen. 
Howe and Pigot, landed at Morton's Point, determined to 
drive the Americans from the hill. The officers harangued 
their men in the following language : " Those cowardly rebels 
must and shall be put to flight. See the dastardly Yankees, 
with rusty guns, and scarcely a bayonet among them. March 
on, my lads ; march on, and show them you are Britons ! — 
show them these dazzling arms, and bayonets bright and 
sharp, and you shall soon see them take to their heels and 
run !" 

7. Hear the words of the brave Putnam, Prescott, and 
Warren : " See, my brave soldiers, the cruel enemies to your 
freedom apjDroaching ! They have come to enslave you. 
Remember the barbarous m^urders of our dearest friends at 
Lexington! Fight manfully, and our foes shall be van- 
quished. Keserve your fire till their near approach — then 
take aim !" On came the red coats. Firmly and silently 
the Americans stood, until the enemy were within eight or 
ten rods. Then, by a general discharge of musketry and 
field artillery, several officers and men are seen to fall. Oh, 

Who commanded the English ? 

What did they say to their men ? 

7. What did the American officers say to their men ? 

How near did the Americans let the English approach before they fired "^ 



THE REVOLUTION. 



my young readers, it pains us to tell you of these bloody 
scenes. It pains us to make the young heart familiar with 
these awful scenes of butchery ; but if you learn history, you 
must necessarily be told of war. The history of the world 
shows us that our wicked earth has always been trodden by 
the feet of armies. 

8. A second time the red coats came forward to the attack, 
and again a deadly lire from the Americans put them to 
flight, leaving such numbers of dead and wounded that 
several of their officers exclaimed, " It is downright butchery 
to lead the men on afresh against the lines." 

At this critical moment, a re-inforcement of British, under 
General Clinton, arrived, and one redoubt was attacked on 
three sides at one time. Want of ammunition finally com- 
pelled the Americans to retreat, although they had suffered 
little loss in comparison with the British. But one beloved 
officer fell, whose death caused many a cheek to turn pale, 
and added a pang to many a sad heart. During the retreat, 
the brave General Warren was killed. He was endeavoring 
to encourage his tired troops, who were hotly pursued, when 
an English officer, who knew him, borrowed a musket from 
one of his soldiers and shot him dead. He fell on or near 
the spot where now stands Bunker Hill Monument.* 

What was the result ? 

8. At the second attack what took place ? Who arrived at this moment 
with re-inforcements 1 Why were the Americans at length compelled to fly 1 

* A granite monunaent, 220 feet high, has been erected to commemorate this 
battle. 



100 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

9. The loss of the British, according to General Gage, was 
one thousand and fifty-four. The Provincials had one hun- 
dred and thirty-nine killed, and two hundred and seventy- 
eight wounded. But we have not 3^et told you half of the 
horrors of this bloody battle. In the beginning of the con- 
test, General Howe ordered the handsome town of Charles- 
town to be set on fire, that the smoke might conceal their 
manoeuvres. The flames spread with fearful rapidity. Soon 
they were seen issuing from the lofty spire of their sacred 
temple. What a scene ! The roaring of cannon, sheets of 
tire from the musketry, the smoke from the conflagration, 
the embattled field, and the awful slaughter, all combined to 
make this spectacle awfully sublime. Think, too, of the 
feelings of the agonized spectators, posted on tops of houses 
and steeples in Boston, and on all the surrounding hills, hun- 
dreds of whom were wrestling in prayer for the safety of a 
beloved husband or brother. 

Who would not pray to God to deliver our nation from 
the horrors of war ? 

9 What handsome town was destroyed by the British 1 



THE EEVOLUTION. 101 




CHAPTEK XX. 

i UNE 17th the battle of Bunlcer Hill was 

fought. Two days before, the American 

1^ Congress appointed George Washington 

Commander-in-Chief of all the American 

forces. In July, he arrived at Cambridge 

near Boston, where the troops were stationed, and 

took command of the army, which consisted of 

fourteen thousand men. 

These poor men were, most of them, ignorant of 
the science of war, and were destitute of everything necessary 
for the trying time they were approaching. All the powder 
in the camp amounted only to nine rounds a man. But Pro- 
vidence so ordered events that often store-ships were captured, 
by which the Americans obtained a supply of powder, and 
many necessary articles. 

2. In the autumn of 1YY5, Congress sent an army to invade 
Canada, which was a province of Great Britain. The com- 

1. When was the battle of Bunker Hill fought ? What good man was 
appointed Commander-in-Chief of the American forces ? In what situation 
did he find the American army ? How did they sometimes get a supply of 
powder ? 

2. Where did Congress send an army in the autumn of 1775 ? 



102 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



mand of this expedition was given to Generals Schuyler and 
Montgomery. General Schnyler was taken very sick, and 
the whole command rested on young General Montgomery. 
Although he was young, he was skilful and very courageous. 
He was greatly assisted by brave men, among whom was the 
intrepid Colonel Arnold. We have not space to tell you 
much of this dangerous expedition. Our army suffered dread- 
fully. The climate of Canada in December is very severe. 
While they were besieging Quebec, they were exposed to a 
violent snow storm. In the midst of the battle, General 
Montgomery was slain, and Arnold was wounded in the leg. 
Bravely the men stood their ground, until they were com- 
pelled to surrender prisoners of war. 

The body of General Montgomery was found in the snow 
the day after the battle, and buried by order of General 
Carleton, the British commander.* 

The Americans were finally compelled to leave Canada. 
It seemed a very sad time to them, but afterwards they had 
cause to rejoice that they had not been victorious, because 
they had not a sufficient force to protect so large a country. 

3. While hostilities were going on in Canada, the colonies 
were in great commotion. I^orfolk, in Yirginia, was burnt 

What is said of General Montgomery 1 What happened to the American 
troops in Canada 1 Were the Americans compelled to leave Canada 1 

* The American Congress, in 1818, ordered hia remains to be removed to the 
city of New York. You may see his monument under the portico of St. Paul's 
church. 



THE REVOLUTION. 103 

by order of the royal governor, Lord Dunmore. This act 
was so atrocious that at last he had to flee. The British 
governors of North and South Carolina, and governor Tryon 
of New York, were also obliged to take refuge on board 
English ships of war. By degrees, British authority ceased 
throughout the union. 

4. The colonies joined themselves in a confederation under 
the name of the Thirteen United Colonies of North America. 
They issued paper money, called Bills of Credit^ to the 
amount of six millions of Spanish dollars — published a de- 
claration of the causes which led to the war — sent another 
petition to the king — established a post-office — and assumed 
all the duties of an independent government. 

5. We have all heard of the Hessian soldiers who came 
over here during the Revolution. Perhaps you do not know 
how or why they came. They came from the states of Ger- 
many, and were hired by the British of the German princes. 
The English were obliged to pay a very great price for these 
hired troops. It was bad enough for the English to come 
over here and slaughter their own brethren, but to hire 16.000 

3. What happened to the American colonies while these things were 
going on in Canada ? What is said of British authority throughout the 
union ? 

4. By what name did the colonies call themselves "? When they had no 
gold and silver money ; what kind of money did they issue ? What did 
they publish ? 

5. What foreign soldiers did the English hire to come over to America 
and fiffht the Americans 1 



104 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

foreign troops — to purchase assassins to aid them in their 
cruel acts — will ever remain a foul stain on the honor of Great 
Britain. 

6. Measures were now taken to annoy the British in Boston. 
Batteries were erected on several hills, from which shot and 
bombs were thrown into the tow^n. The battery w^hich was 
opened at Dorchester Point, soon obliged General Howe to 
evacuate the town. On seeing the fortifications which the 
Americans had secretly erected, General Howe was heard to 
say, " I know not what I shall do ; the rebels have done 
more in one night than my whole army have done in weeks." 

Y. It was a joyful day for Boston when the British left. Six- 
teen months had the people endured insults from the soldiers, 
hunger, cold, and almost every privation. In some instances, 
the pews and benches of churches were taken for fire-wood. 
The North church was entirely demolished, and whole houses 
were consumed. Thus even the houses dedicated to the 
worship of God were profaned by the subjects of the king. 

8. It was the ITth of March, 17Y6, when Lord Howe em- 
barked with his troops, and a great many tory families, for 
Halifax, and General Washington entered the town in triumph. 
Already the oppressed people gathered around Washington 
and hailed him as their deliverer. 

6. Were the Bostonians glad the British were gone 1 

7. Why Avas General Howe and the British troops obliged to leave 
Boston 1 What did General Howe say when he saw how industriously the 
rebels had worked 1 

8. Who went home with General Howe to England 1 











HE Americans, until this time, had 
not been disputing for independ- 
ence. They did not wish to be 
free from the just government of 
Great Britain, but they wished 
constitutional liberty. They w^ish- 
ed to be represented in the Eng- 
lish Parliament, and other just 
rights of w^hich you have been told. At last they found that 
nothing but independence would do. All over the land was heard 
the shout, " Independence forever fi'om the yohe of a tyrant .^" 

1. For what were the Americans disputing ? What did they at last find 
out ? What shout was heard all over the land ? 

5* 



106 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

2. The wise men of the nation assembled in the American 
Congress. It was on the Yth of the pleasant month of June, 
when Kichard Henry Lee made a motion for declaring the 
colonies ^^free and indei^endentr 

A committee of five was appointed to prepare a Declaration 
of Independence. It was a solemn time for the colonies. They 
were about to cast off their allegiance to the mother-land. 
They felt sad, for they could still say 

" England, with all thy faults, 
I love thee still." 

This declaration of independence would be treason against 
the home government, and those who signed it would be 
liable to death by hanging. If they failed in gaining a vic- 
tory over England, a dreadful fate would befal their posterity. 
In this trying time, they appealed to God, and on His arm 
they rested for support. 

3. On the fourth of July, 17T6, Congress published their 
Declo/ratia/n of Independence. A mighty empire was sepa- 
rated — a new nation was born — and from that time assumed 
a rank among the families of the earth. The words colony 
and province were changed to " Btater Instead of the united 
colonies, they were called the United States. The next year, 

2. What motion was made in the American Congress on the 7th of 
June ? For what was a committee of five appointed ? Why did they feel 
very sad 1 To what were the signers of the declaration of Independence 
liable ? 

3. When was the Declaration of Independence published ? What were 
the united colonies now called 1 



THE EEVOLUTION. 107 

the red ground of the American flag was altered to thirteen 
blue and white stripes, as an emblem of the thirteen states 
united in a war for liberty. 

4. There were fifty-six signers to the celebrated Declaration 
of Independence. All of the names are signed with a firm 
hand, except one. This is good old Stephen Hopkins, who 
was afflicted with palsy. 

You know now why the Americans are so jolly on Inde- 
pendence Day. 'No wonder it is celebrated all over the 
states. It is much better for any people to be free than to 
be governed by a tyrant and his wicked ministers. 

The Declaration was printed, and thousands of copies scat- 
tered abroad. It was greeted everywhere with joy. Bells 
were rung, cannons were fired, and even the little girls and 
boj^s jumped for joy. 

5. In New York there was a leaden statue of King George 
III., standing in the Bowling Green. It was a fierce-looking 
figure. On its head was a crown ; in one hand he held a 
sceptre. As soon as the news of the declaration reached 
that city, a great mob proceeded to the statue, crying, " Down 
with it, down with it !" In a few minutes poor leaden King 
George was seen on his face on the ground ; and in a few 
minutes more he was chopped up to be made into musket 
balls. 

How was the flag altered ? 

4. What is said of the signers of the Declaration of Independence? 
What is the fourth of July still called 1 

5. What happened to the leaden statue of King George ? „ 

— „ — . ^ , , , . -.„„^^ — -..-^ — ^ n 



108 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

6. Although the Americans had declared themselves free, 
the people of Great Britain would not give them up, and 
they sent over thousands of trooj^s to conquer the rebels. A 
long and bloody war ensued, of which we will only tell you 
a little, until you grow older. As we have said before, it is 
very painful for us to talk to young children of such horrid 
scenes. 

It is because the people of this world are wicked that war 
exists. In heaven there is no fighting, because there is no 
sin there. 

6. What did Great Britain do when they heard the.. Americans had 
declared themselves free and independent ? 




THE REVOLUTION. 109 




CHAPTEE II. 

]Sr the 28th of July, Sir Peter Parker, with a 
naval force, attacked a fort on Sullivan's 
Island, which is on the coast of Carolina, 
designing to reduce Charleston. They were 
repulsed with great loss, and the expedition 
failed. 

General Howe, with his Boston army, left Halifax 

in June and anchored off Sandy Hook, to wait for 

the troops of Clinton and Parker from the south, and 

for the re-inforcements from Europe. Their united number 

would amount to about thirty-five thousand men. 

The British designed to seize New York, keep possession 
of the Hudson river, and separate the Eastern from the 
Middle States. 

2. The American army consisted of about 27,000 men, but 
a great many hundred of these were invalids or unprovided 
with arms. They had erected fortifications at Brooklyn, and 
on the heights which command the harbor of 'New York. 

1. What is said of Sir Peter Parker's expedition? How large was the 
British army in America 1 

2. Plow large was the American army 1 



110 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

G-eneral Howe sent letters to Wasliington, "offering par- 
dons to such as deserved mercy." These letters were super- 
scribed " To George Washington, Esgy Any school-boy, 
now-a-days, would know this was improjDer. Washington 
refused to receive them, because they were not directed to 
him as Commander. As a private individual, he would hold 
no intercourse with the enemies of his country. A second 
letter was sent by General Howe, directed to " George Wash- 
ington, (&G., (&G., c§6\" This was also refused. Finding that 
the Americans wished no royal pardons. General Howe 
resolved to commence operations. 

3. On the 26th of August, General Heister took his post 
at Flatbush with a body of Hessians, and the Americans were 
alarmed to find an immense body of troops advancing. They 
had landed near the village of Gravesend. They divided in 
three columns, and commenced their march towards the 
American camp at Brooklyn, then under the command of 
Generals Putnam., Sullivan, and Sterling. The battle began 
at daybreak on the 2Tth. It was long and bloody. It was a 
sad. ^day for the Americans. They lost nearly twelve hun- 
dred men. The British lost four hundred. 

4. During the action. General Washington passed over 
from New York. He was moved to tears when he saw the 

What is said of Gen. Howe's letters to General Washington 1 

3. Where did General Heister take his post on the 26th of August ? 
Where were the American troops stationed ? Under what Generals were 

they? What is said of tlie battle ? 

4. How did Washington feel when he saw his best troops slaughtered '^ 



THE KE VOLUTION. Ill 

slaughter of his best troops. He could not send others to 
their relief without exposing the camj) to great danger. A 
heavy rain the next day kept the enemy in their tents. 
Washington felt that something must be done or they would 
all be destroyed. They must retreat to 'New York. How to 
do this he did not know, as the British were so near. How- 
ever, he had asked direction of God, and he went onward in 
his perilous undertaking, l^ever was any enterprise more 
skilfully conducted, or more highly favored by Providence. 
All the field-baggage and artillery of nine thousand men, 
were conveyed to New York, and the enemy knew nothing 
of it. They were only a few yards off, so that the sound of 
the pick-axes might be heard. As the day began to dawn, a 
thick fog enveloped the whole of Long Island in obscurity, 
while on the side of the enemy at New York, the atmosphere 
was perfectly clear. The wind, too, w^hich had been against 
them, suddenly changed to their favor, and the whole army 
and baggage were taken over in safety. 

The mist cleared away, and displayed to the astonished 
eyes of the enemy that not an American was to be found in 
Brooklyn. 

5. So intense had been the anxiety of Washington, that for 

Describe the retreat of the Americans to New York. 
Did the British know they were crossing the river so near to their army 1 
How were the Americans hidden from them 1 
What else was in their favor 1 

Do you not suppose God heard the prayers of Washington and his dis- 
tressed vsoldiers 1 



112 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

forty-eight iiours he did not close his eyes, and rarely dis- 
mounted from his horse. 

To hazard another engagement would be unsafe, so the 
Americans took a position on the north end of the island. 
The army was reduced to three thousand men. 

The British pursued the Americans. A severe action took 
place at White Plains on the 28th of October, in which 
several hundred fell, and General Washington retired farther 
up the country. The British now held possession of the city 
of New York, Long Island, and Staten Island. 

6. Washington was obliged to retreat into New Jerse}^, 
first to Newark, then Brunswick, Trenton, and Princeton. 
All this while the British, under Cornwallis, were close 
behind. 

This was a dark time for the Americans. Our army suf- 
fered the greatest hardships. The soldiers had very little 
food, and that little was very poor. Many of them were 
without blankets and shoes, and the ground was often stained 
with their blood. 

So dark was the prospect, that many were induced to 
accept of pardon on the terms of Lord Howe. The last day 
of the year was near at hand when the term of service of 

5. Was Washington very anxious all this time 1 Was it safe to remain 
near the British and engage in another battle ? Did the British pursue 
them 1 Where did they have another battle 1 What is said of the battle 
of White Plains 1 What places did the British now possess 1 

6. To v^'hat places did Washington retreat 1 Describe the situation of 
the poor Americans ? 



THE REVOLUTION. 113 

many of the old troops would expire, and the hearts of the 
stern old patriots ached as they looked on the half-starved, 
naked, and dispirited soldiers. About this time, Rhode Island 
fell into the hands of the British. 

7. We have said it was now a dark time for the American 
patriots. But they did not give up in despair. They ap- 
pointed a day of fasting and prayer, and good people all 
over the land cried to God to deliver them from the power of 
the oppressors. They also endeavored to obtain assistance 
from France. The French and English people were not on 
very good terms at that time. JSTeither did Spain and Hol- 
land think much of England. They preferred to see the 
Americans victorious over their proud and haughty rival. 
Doctor Franklin, Silas Deane, and Arthur Lee, were sent 
across the ocean to see what assistance they could obtain 
from foreign powers. 

8. It was now mid-winter ; but Washington did not stop 
for that. He saw that no time was to be lost. On Christmas 
night a very bold enterprise was undertaken. It was very 
cold, and the snow was falling fast. The Delaware river 
was filled with floating masses of ice. Washington, with a 
few chosen men, crossed this stormy water, and surprised the 
enemy at Trenton. They attempted to escajDC, but could not. 

7. What did the Americans do to get assistance in their destitute state ? 
Did the people of France and Holland like the English 1 Why was Dr. 
Franklin sent to England ? 

8. What bold enterprise did Gen. Washington undertake on Christmas 
night ? What success had he 1 



114 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

One thousand men were taken prisoners, and the spoils con- 
sisted of six brass field-pieces, a thousand stand of arms, and 
some ammunition. Historians all say this was a great achieve- 
ment. Kothing seemed more improbable to the enemy, as 
their general had boasted he could keep the peace of 'New 
Jersey with a corporal's guard. » 

9. As the British were very near, and with superior num- 
bers, to the American army. General Washington deemed it 
prudent to re-cross into Pennsylvania with his prisoners. 
These being secured, he returned to Trenton. He had only 
five thousand soldiers able to act. Cornwallis was close at 
hand at Princeton, with a large army. Washington's situa- 
tion was very perilous. He looked at the Delaware river, 
full of floating ice on one side, and the mustering forces of 
red coats, and felt that it would be destruction to his noble 
soldiers to risk an engagement. What could he do ? It was 
a dark night. The enemy were then asleep, but by the next 
sunrise, they would be in preparation for a general attack. 

10. Behold what strange orders Washington gives ! He 
tells the baggage-men to get it all together and move ofif 
very silently. He tells a few guard-men to remain and 
kindle large fires through the night, to make the British 
believe they were all still on the grounds. He told some 
others to work with pick-axes for the same purpose. He 
then marched by a circuitous route to Princeto7i. 

9. Did he dare to remain so near the British ? 

10. What strange orders did Washington give 1 



THE REVOLUTION. 115 

11. It was a very foggy morning. Wlien they were near 
Princeton, tliey met a party of British soldiers. A battle 
ensued. At one time it seemed as if the Americans must 
give up. Washington shouted to his men to stand fast ; 
then, snatching a flag from a standard-bearer, he took a bold 
station between the two armies — only thirty yards from each ; 
and wherever the shot fell most thickly, there Washington 
was seen. He remained unhurt. The field was won ; but it 
was dearly bought. Beside Washington lay his bosom-friend, 
the gallant General Mercer, who fell in the action. The frost- 
covered ground was sprinkled with the dead bodies of many 
brave soldiers that day. 

The British at Trenton were greatly surprised when they 
found the Americans had left during the night. When they 
heard the firing at Trenton, although it was in the depth ol 
winter, they took it to be thunder. 

12. The Americans were so much exhausted by the labors 
of the last few days, that some of them actually fell down 
through the influence of sleep. Many of them were almost 
naked, and endured constantly the torments of hunger, while 
the enemy had everything in abundance. 

The proud enemy, who but a few weeks before chased the 
ragged, starving rebels before them, from post to post, now 
held but a small part of New Jersey. 



11. What happened at Princeton 1 What is said of Washington ? What 
brave general was killed 1 What is said of the surprise of the British ] 

12. Were the Americans greatly exhausted ? 



116 HISTOEY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

13. The Hessians and British had committed such outrages 
on the people of New Jersey, as even a savage would be 
ashamed to confess. Poor and infirm old men were perse- 
cuted, defenceless women, and dear innocent little children, 
Tvere treated w^ith horrid barbarity. 

This has been called '' The time that tried men^s souls.'''' 
As long as American history is studied, it will be a memorial 
of the bravery and patriotism of the American people, and also 
of the protecting hand of Providence. If God had not been 
with them, the Americans could never have gained the 
victory. 

We trust this now prosperous people will not be so un- 
grateful as to ^vander away from God who has so richly 
blessed them. 

13. How had the Hessians and British behaved in New Jersey % What 
has this time been called 1 Of what is it a memorial ? 



'""^m^^^^^^^m 



THE EEVOLUTION. 



117 




CHAPTEK III. 

FTEK the battles of Trenton and Princeton, 
General Washington chose Morristown in 
New Jersey for his winter-quarters. As his 
men were in danger of small pox, he had 
most of his troops inoculated. 
2. In May, both armies prepared for the continuance 
of the contest. General Howe was on his way to oc- 
Tj cupy Philadelphia, and Washington determined to 
prevent it if possible. On the 11th of September, 
the battle of Brandywine was fought. Here the Americans 
were defeated, with the loss of 1,000 men in killed, wounded, 
and prisoners. Among the wounded was the brave young 
Marquis de Lafayette, who had just before entered the army 
as a volunteer. 

The Americans were defeated in another engagement, in 

which they lost 1,200 men. This was fought at Germanton^n. 

3. While these reverses were taking place at the South, 

great victories were achieved at the North. Several battles 

and important events occurred, but we will only mention the 

1. Where did Washington go during the winter % 

2. What did General Howe wish to do in May ? What happened at 
Brandywine ? What happened at Germantown % 

3. What happened during this time at the North % 



118 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

one of most interest. Early in the spring, some British 
troops, commanded by a very proud general called Burgoyne, 
endeavored to invade the states through Canada. At first, 
it seemed as if they were going to be victorious, but at last 
General Burgoyne was in a sad predicament. He was con- 
fined in a narrow pass near Saratoga in ISTew York State. 
On one side was the Hudson, on the other a very dark, im- 
passable woods, a body of Americans in the rear, and 13,000 
in front. General Gates commanded the American troops. 
General Burgoyne watched day after day for help. Every 
plan he could devise to retreat was tried. In vain were all 
his efiforts. His provisions were exhausted, his troops worn 
down with toil, and, for fear of a worse fate, the haughty 
general resolved to capitulate. 

By this we mean — he had to give up his whole army of 
5,752 men, and everything belonging to them. It was very 
mortifying to the British. Among the captive officers were 
six members of the British parliament. 

Although the Americans were full of joy at this wonder- 
ful victory, they did not forget in their rejoicings to treat 
their captive foe with kindness. This was showing a Chris- 
tian feeling. Christ, our great pattern, was merciful to his 
bitterest foes. 

4. During the year 1777, several noble-hearted foreigners 
joined the American cause. We would have the posterity 

Describe General Burgoyne's situation. 

What was the proud General at last obliged to do 1 

How did the victorious Americans treat their captives? 



THE REVOLUTION. 119 

of the patriots of the revolution ever remembered among 
the noblest of our friends, the names of Lafayette^ Pulaski^ 
and Kosciusko. These brave men espoused our cause from a 
love for liberty. We cannot refrain from a particular notice 
of Lafayette. After hearing of the defeats of our army on 
Long Island, and the loss of one post after another, he deter- 
mined to espouse our despised and rejected cause. The king 
ordered him to stay at home. But he could not — he would 
not obey. After being thwarted in his plans many times, he 
at last fitted out a vessel at his own expense. He procured 
a quantity of military stores, and, parting with a young and 
much-loved wife, and all the fascinating scenes of a brilliant 
court, he hastened to America ! He hastened to espouse our 
almost hopeless cause. He came not for gold, for he asked 
no pay. He came unsolicited, and in defiance of the wishes 
of all his friends. " Tlie moment," said the noble stranger, 
"I heard the name of America, I began to love her ; from 
the moment I understood that she was struffo^linoj for her 
liberties, I burned to shed my best blood in her glorious 
cause ; and the days I shall devote to the service of America, 
wherever and whenever it may be, will constitute the hap- 
piest of my life." 

5. Lafayette showed he was sincere in this expression of 
his feelings. With a magnanimity seldom found, he, the idol 
of his circle, came to us in our darkest hour. He lavished 

4. What noble foreigners joined the American army ? What is said of 
Lafayette ? Can you repeat what Lafayette said about America ? 

5. Did he share the privations of our people ? 



120 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATE 








Lafayette offerinj; his sword to the Continental Congress. 

his princely fortune on our naked, half-starved soldiers ; 
through the snow and sleet and rigors of mid-winter, he 
shared the log-hut or the blanket with our troops ; or, after a 
weary day on a battle-field, beneath a scorching sun, we find 
him locked to sleep close beside the beating heart of Wash- 
ington, and sharing with him his mantle, and, at the age of 
twenty, shedding his blood on the altar of Liberty. But we 
stop. Why rehearse what Lafayette did for this country, 
w^hen his memory is fresh in every heart ? To this day tears 
of gratitude moisten the face of every true-hearted American, 
at the remembrance of Lafayette's generous deeds, and very 
little children soon learn to lisp sweetly the name of La- 
fayette^ the '^jpeople^s friendP Long live the memory of 
Lafayette, the people's friend — the friend of Liberty — let the 
shout never cease while the American Republic exists. 



THE REVOLUTION, 



121 



CHAPTEE lY, 




HE commencement of the year 1Y78, was 
distinguished by a treaty of alliance be- 
tween France and America. This was a 
joyful event, because the Americans ob- 
tained a powerful ally or friend to help 
them in their time of need. Early in the spring, the 
Court of France sent out Count de Estaing with a 
fleet of fifteen sail of the line, to assist the Americans. 
Washington ordered that a day of thanksgiving and 
prayer should be observed, because God had moved the hearts 
of the French people to acknowledge the Americans as friends, 
and had made them willing to favor their struggle for liberty. 
Shouts of joy arose from the log-huts of Yalley Forge, where 
our army had been encamped during the winter. For a while 
the poor soldiers forgot their sufferings in the universal joy. 
" Long live the King of France r they cried. The artillery 
fired thirteen rounds, followed by a general running fire of 
the musketry. Then arose another glad shout: ''Huzza! 
Long live the friendly European Powers /" And yet another 



1. Why were the Americans joyful because of the treaty of alliance 
made between France and America 1 What did Washington order ? 

6 



122 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

sliout, ^^ Huzza for the American States T followed by the 
artillery and running fire. 

2. At last a fourth shout of joy rung, echoed and re-echoed 
from every side, '•''Long live General Washington P'' Even 
the sick soldiers joined in this cry. During the cold winter. 
General Washington had proved himself the firm friend of 
the suffering soldiers. One-half of the men were destitute of 
clothes, shoes, and stockings : some thousands were without 
blankets, and were obliged to warm themselves over fires all 
night. What a hard lot ! After a toilsome day's work, to 
have not even a blanket to shield them from the cold ground 
at night ! Several times during the winter, they had been 
threatened with famine ; often for four or five days they 
were without bread, and a whole week without beef or por^. 
Washington did all in his power to alleviate their sufferings. 
In the midst of all this gloom, there were some persons mean- 
souled enough to be jealous of the praise which Washington 
received. They were jealous of the power which Washing- 
ton had. What a mean spirit it shows to be unhappy at the 
success or goodness of another ! Washington taught men 
and women and even little children a lesson by his conduct. 
He was persecuted, and he only returned good again. He 
was reviled, and he was calm and patient under the most 
cutting calumnies. Who would not imitate the great and 

2. From what did our troops suffer ? Was Washington mindful of their 
sufferings'? Had even the great and good Washington enemies'? How 
did he treat his enemies 1 



THE REVOLUTION. 123 

good Washington? What a noble example the American 
people have before them ! 

3. The British had gained possession of Philadelphia, and 
had chosen that city and vicinity for their winter quarters. 
Here they abandoned themselves to pleasures of the lowest 
kind, and many of them committed acts of which I would 
tremble to tell you. At last the time for commencing opera- 
tions arrived, and the British left Philadelphia in June, in- 
tending to go to IlSTcw York. 

General Washington found out their plan, and attempted 
to interrupt their progress. The two armies met at Mon- 
mouth^ which lies sixty-four miles from Philadelphia. It is 
in the State of New Jersey. This was a severe battle. The 
Americans gained some advantage. It was fought on the 
28th of June. Old soldiers said it was one of the hottest 
days they had ever felt. A great many of the men died 
from the excessive heat, and many others from drinking cold 
water. Others dropped down fainting with fatigue. It was 
during the night after this battle that Washington wrapped 
his own cloak around Lafayette, and the two tired heroes laid 
themselves on the ground to sleep. The British troops retreat- 
ed to New York, and remained inactive during the summer. 

4. In the autumn. General CKnton sent troops to Georgia, 
and in December, the British defeated the American force, 
and took possession of Savannah. 

3. Where did the British spend the winter ? What can you tell of the 
battle of Monmouth 1 

4. What southern city did the British get possession of in the autumn ? 



124: HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

During tlie summer of this year, the celebrated Massacre 
of Wyoming took place. The tories of that charming valley 
had joined their forces with the blood-thirsty savage, in order 
to kill their whig neighbors. The tory party, you know, 
favored the king. What renders this massacre so very awful 
is the fact that most of the tories were related to the whigs 
— some of them by the nearest ties of blood. One monster, 
a tory, sent word to his poor old father, that " he hooped to 
wash his hands m his hearths hlood V Was not this truly 
shocking ? This wicked man murdered his father, mother, 
brothers and sisters, stripped off their scalps, and cut off the 
bruised head of his father ! Our blood runs cold at the 
thought of such atrocity. What wicked hearts such men 
must have ! What fearful crimes our wicked passions lead 
us to commit ! How highly we should value the blessings 
of peace ! How constantly we should govern our wicked 
passions of revenge and pride, and try to be meek and mild 
and lowly in spirit. 

What is said of the Massacre of Wyoming 1 Do you know why the 
whigs an ' tories were enemies % 



THE EEVOLUTION. 125 




CHAPTEE V. 

OOD people began to tremble for the fate of 
the American army at this time. We have 
alluded to their extreme sufferings. Be- 
sides being distressed for the necessaries of 
life in the camp, the soldiers were greatly 
grieved at the desolations of their own happy homes. 
Many of their relatives were pining away in filthy 
prison-ships, where they were treated worse than 
brutes. Many others were dragging out a miserable 
existence from wounds received. Wives and mothers all 
over the land were exposed to very cruel treatment from the 
Hessians and British. ITever since the commencement of 
the war, were the finances of the country in a worse state 
than at the beginning of this year. The Americans were 
not able to loan or furnish money enough to carry on the 
war. They had received some benefit from the paper bills, 
and during the year, the amount issued, rose to over two 
hundred millions of dollars. These at first were good, 
but at last they depreciated to a fortieth of their nominal 
value. What was once good for forty dollars, now was only 
worth one. A great many people became very poor by 
this cm-rency. 



126 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

2. During this year, the British forces were successful in 
South Carolina and Georgia. The British and French fleets 
were in combat among the West India Islands, and the 
ISTorthern and Middle States were ravaged by parties of 
British sent out for plunder. Although the Americans were 
unsuccessful at Savannah, they were not disheartened. The 
conduct of the enemy at the South was so ferocious that the 
royal cause lost many friends during this campaign. Pro- 
perty of all kinds was destroyed without any cause. ISTeither 
women, children, nor sick, were spared. Splendid mansions 
were burned to the ground, and even cattle grazing were 
wantonly slaughtered. During the whole war, the English 
exhibited a ferocious spirit towards their enemies, while the 
Americans manifested humanity and generous forbearance. 

3. It is the duty of the historian of the Eevolution to 
record unpleasant facts. Children must learn at what a 
fearful price our fathers gained their freedom ; but let them 
be taught that the actors in that bloody drama have passed 
away. The tyrannical king is gone to be judged before the 
King of kings ; the wicked ministers will be there too. Their 
places at court are now filled by men who greatly condemn 
those acts of Eang George and his war-loving ministers. 
Every year produces a closer union of feeling and action 
between America and England. We trust they may long 
stand as co-workers in every great and glorious cause, but 
never again as the oppressor and the oppressed. 

2. How did the British behave at the South'? 

3. How do the British now treat the Americans ? 



THE REVOLUTION. 127 

4. During the year 1779, Fairfield and Norwalk were burn- 
ed, and much property was destroyed at New Haven. About 
this time General Putnam took that famous break-neck ride 
down the stone steps at Horse-neck. After the British had 
burned J^orwalk, 1,500 of them marched to Horse-neck, 
which is on Long Island Sound, about thirty miles from 
^ew York. General Putnam was there with only 150 men. 
He was a fearless man. The British surprised him near the 
old meeting-house. He saw his men all safely escape in a 
neighboring swamp before he thought what to do himself. 
He was on horseback, and in great danger. The British 
came on exultingly. His quick eye surveyed the ground, 
and he saw but one road to escape ; this was down one hun- 
dred steep stone steps. The British were too great cowards 
to follow Putnam. They contented themselves with firing 
bullets after him, one of which pierced his hat. He did not 
care for his hat ; it was not a very fine one, for old Israel 
Putnam did not spend much of his money for dress. 

5. The Americans were fortunate enough to have another 
very brave officer called General Wayne. For his country 
he would undergo any privation, and submit to any death. 
The most brilliant action of his life was the storming of 
Stony Point, which occurred during this year, and of which 
you can read an account in our larger history. 

4. What towns were burned during the year 1779 ? 

What famous ride did the brave General Putnam take about this time ? 

What did the British do % 



128 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



6. I must not forget to tell you something about our bold 
little navy. In 1776, the navy numbered twenty-six vessels, 
great and small, and even this number afterwards became 
reduced ; but, small as it was, it was energetic and active 
enough to capture eight hundred English, merchantmen 
during the first two years of the war. 

Among the boldest of our bold commanders during the 
war, was the celebrated John Paul Jones. He was exceed- 
ingly brave. He would cruise, without fear, in a single 
sloop, right before the harbors of England, and sail amid 
ships double the size of his own ; and while they were firing 
broadsides on him, he w^ould sometimes make a perfect farce 
of the thing by returning the broadsides with a single mus- 
ket-shot. His name is deserving of memory by American 
children as long as the American navy rides the sea, because 
he w^as the man who first unfurled the American flag at sea, 
and received the first salute offered it by a foreign nation, 
and the first who carried it victoriously through the fight on 
the waves. 

I would like to tell you how the flag looked which the 
Americans used before they adopted the stars and stripes, 
but no record remains which tells certainly what the flag 
was. It is generally believed to have been a pine tree, with 
a rattle-snake coiled at the roots, as if in the act of springing, 
and underneath the motto, " Don't tread on me." 

You can read of the wonderful exploits of John Paul 

6. What is said of General Wayne ? 

6. How large was our navy in 1776 ? What is said of John Paul Jones ? 



THE REVOLUTION. 



129 




Paul Jones' victory. 

Jones in larger histories. During a short cruise of three 
months, it is said his prizes amounted to more than a quarter 
of a million of dollars. The clothing which he captured 
was very much needed by the half-naked soldiers of the 
army. 

In 1779, the French government aided the Americans in 
fitting out a squadron of three frigates and two smaller ves- 
sels, and the intrepid Paul Jones was chosen commander. 
He named his vessel " The Poor Richard^'' out of respect to 
Franklin, who aided him in getting the vessel by his solici- 
tations to the French court. 

7. One of his most desperate battles was fought when the 
Poor Pichard was old and rotten, and every timber of the 

What name Did Paul Jones give to his vessel ? 

6* 



130 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

enemy's ship, the Serwpis^ was new and stanch. When the 
battle had fairly commenced, and friend and foe were trem- 
bling, the captain of the British ship hailed to know if Jones 
had struck. He quickly replied, '^ I have not legun tojighty 
Jones ordered his vessel to be lashed fast to the enemy's ship, 
and a most terrific battle took place ; the guns touched 
muzzles, and at each discharge, huge gaps opened in the 
sides of each vessel. The heaviest of Jones' guns bursted, 
and part of the deck of the Poor Eichard was blown up, 
and still the fight went on. Ten times the Serapis was on 
fire, and ten times were the flames put out. The smoke of 
the battle hid the sight of the full round moon, and the 
awful carnage was carried on with the blaze of the guns. 
For three hours and a half this incessant cannonade con- 
tinued, within yard-arm and yard-arm of each other, and 
when at last the Serapis struck her colors, three hundred 
dead and wounded men were piled on those shattered decks, 
and the morning's dawn showed the Poor Kichard to be a 
deplorable wreck, riddled through, and stove to j)ieces. It 
is said Paul Jones watched the waves rolling through her, 
and her swayings from side to side, as he " would a dying 
friend ; and finally, with a swelling heart, saw her last mast 
disappear, and the eddying waves close with a rushing sound 
over her, as she sunk with the dead who had so bravely 
fallen on her decks." 

7. Describe the battle between the Serapis and " The Poor Richard." 



THE REVOLUTION. 131 




CHAPTEE YI. 

OUTH CAROLINA was the principal seat 
of the war during 1Y80. Sir Henry Clinton 
left New York and arrived before Charles- 
ton in February. Great preparations were 
made on both sides. General Lincoln, ano- 
ther very brave general, commanded the Ameri- 
cans. He had only 2,500 effective men. Sir Henry 
Clinton had 9,000 veteran troops. A distressing 
siege ensued. Charleston was the principal city of 
the state, and held a large quantity of provisions and am- 
munition. All was done by Lincoln and his brave men that 
soldiers could do. For a fortnight General Lincoln never 
took off his clothes to rest. All their provisions were ex- 
hausted save a little rice ; they were shut up by sea and 
land, fighting against despair itself. The enemy triumphed. 
General Lincoln surrendered his "spotless sword" and his 
entire army. South Carolina was thus left exposed to the 
rapacious troops of the enemy. 

1. Who were the commanders of the two armies at the South in 1780? 
Which army numbered the most men 1 What happened to the Americans 
at Charleston 1 



132 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

2. Several expeditions were sent out by Clinton, which, 
proving also successful, spread terror among the patriots. 
Among the leaders of these expeditions was the sanguinary 
Colonel Tarleton, whose name is associated with the bloodiest 
scenes of southern warfare. He boasted that he would give 
the " rebels no quarter." To this day, when any very dread- 
ful act takes place, of a brutal character, the people com- 
pare the action with those of Tarleton. 

3. General Gates was appointed to the command of the 
southern army, in the place of the good and brave Lincoln, 
who was taken prisoner at Charleston. A bloody battle was 
fought at Camden on the 19th of August, in which our army 
experienced a shameful defeat. General Gates fought this 
battle contrary to the wishes and judgment of the expe- 
rienced Baron de Kalb and other wise men. General Gates 
rejected the advice, and insinuated that it was given through 
fear. "A few hours will show," replied the veteran De 
Kalb, "who are the brave." The battle commenced. In 
the hottest of it, the confident Gates is seen spurring his 
war-horse to the greatest speed after some cowardly militia. 
While the battle was raging, the Baron de Kalb was left 
alone at the head of a few brave troops, to cope with the 
whole British army. While, laughable enough to relate, 
General Gates w^as galloping as fast as his horse would carry 

2. What character had Colonel Tarleton ? 

3. Why was General Gates appointed commander of the Americans at 
the South ? What happened at Camden ? What is said of General Gates 
and the brave Baron de Kalb ? 



THE REVOLUTION. 133 

him, and never stopped until he was eighty miles from the 
field of battle. This very brave General Gates was one of 
the men who envied Washington his bravery and good name. 
The Baron de Kalb fell pierced with eleven wounds,* and 
the British were victorious. Lord Rawdon and Lord Corn- 
wallis were the British officers in command at Camden. 

4. Among the brave American officers at the South, we 
cannot forbear mentioning Generals Marion and Sumpter. 
Even Tarleton could not frighten these brave soldiers. All 
over the South the people honor the names of Francis 
Marion and Sumpter. E"ot so with General Gates. He was 
evidently an ambitious, selfish, weak-minded man. He was 
not noble-souled enough to give honor where honor was due. 
Many public and private acts of General Gates, show him to 
have been possessed of an ignoble and ill-governed mind. 

General Greene, a very talented and noble-minded, officer, 
was appointed to supersede General Gates. 

5. Let us now turn our attention northward. Early in 

How did General Gates show his bravery during the battle at Camden 1 
What was the sad fate of the brave Baron De Kalb 1 

4. What kind of men w^ere Generals Marion and Sumpter 1 What was 
the character of General Gates ? 

* General Washington, many years after, on a visit to Camden, inquired for 
the grave of De Kalb. After looking at it a while, with a countenance marked 
with thought, he breathed a deep sigh, and exclaimed, " So there lies the brave 
De Kalb ! the generous stranger, who came from a distant land to fight our 
battles, and water with his blood the tree of liberty ! Would to God he had 
lived to share with us its fruits." — Life of Marion. 



134 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

May, Lafayette, who had been on a visit to France, returned, 
bringing with him the good tidings that France was about 
sending out money and troops for the Americans. King 
Louis XYL also sent by Lafayette, a commission appointing 
Washington Lieutenant-General of the armies of France, and 
Vice- Admiral of its fleets. Early in July, the welcome in- 
telligence was received that the expected French fleet had 
entered the harbor of Newport, Rhode Island. On board 
were six thousand men, under the command of Count de 
Rochambeau, who was an officer of much experience. Wash- 
ington immediately repaired to Hartford, in order to meet 
Count Rochambeau in conference as to the best plan of 
action. 

6. During the absence of Washington from head-quarters, 
an event occurred, which, but for the interposition of Provi- 
dence, would have proved the ruin of America, and made 
our fathers bond slaves again to the king and parliament of 
Great Britain. This event was the treason of Arnold. From 
the commencement of the war, Benedict Arnold had been 
among the bravest of the brave. No one ever dreamed of 
his becoming a traitor. His name was always associated 
with deeds of daring in his country's cause. Those glorious 
victories at Saratoga were mainly won by the intrepidity of 

5. What tidings did Lafayette bring on his return from France ? What 
welcome intelligence was received in July ? 

6. What famous event happened while General Washington went from 
head-quarters to meet the French commander and his troops ? What cha- 
racter had Benedict Arnold until this time ? 



THE KEVOLUTION. - 135 

Benedict Arnold. But General Gates, although sitting in 
his camp holding arguments on various subjects during the 
very time of the battle, was selfish and ignoble enough to 
be jealous of Arnold's bravery, and refused to report his 
deeds of daring to Congress, even though his name rung from 
one end of the camp to the other. 

7. Arnold resented this and other injuries. With all his 
courage and daring, he did not possess a noble soul. He 
panted for revenge. He forgot the welfare of his country, 
and from this time saw nothing in a good light. 

Washington was always the friend of Arnold, and while 
he condemned his angry spirit, believed he had been greatly 
injured. Washington had given Arnold the command of 
the important fortress at West Point. Immense stores and 
munitions of war were collected there, besides a stock of 
powder for the whole army. The love of Arnold for his 
country changed to hatred. He loved gold, and for it he 
determined to betray West Point into the hands of the Eng- 
lish. For this they promised to pay him 30,000 pounds 
sterling, and make him a Brigadier-General in the very army 
he had once fought against. 

8. Major Andre, a brave and highly educated British officer, 
was appointed by Clinton to confer with Arnold. By several 

How did General Gates treat General Arnold at Saratoga ? 

7. What important fortress had Washington given Arnold to command 1 
What wicked thing did Arnold determine to do 1 What were the British to 
give him as a reward for his treachery 1 

8. What is said of Major Andre ? 



136 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

providential events, their plans were thwarted. Andre was 
on his return to Sir Henry Clinton, after having agreed that 
Arnold should surrender the fortress on the 25th of Sep- 
tember. Andre was on horseback, spurring on towards 'New 
York with great speed, happy in the thought that their plans 
promised success. At Tarrytown, near the lines of the royal 
army, he was intercepted by an American soldier, who held 
his horse by the bridle until two companions came to his aid. 
In his alarm Andre did not show his passport. The soldiers 
soon found they had taken a valuable prize. Andre offered 
them a beautiful gold watch, his purse, his horse, or anything 
they would ask to release him. They were poor men, but 
they would not be bribed. They searched his boots, and 
found a plan of the fort, and other papers concealed in the 
linings. 

9. Arnold the traitor heard of Andre's arrest in time to 
escape on board the Vulture, a British ship, which lay in the 
river. Andre, according to the laws of war, was hanged as a 
spy. He was universally beloved. Many tears were shed by 
friends and foes at his untimely end ; but neither prayers 
nor tears nor love could save him from an ignominious death. 
Could the traitor Arnold have been suspended on the gibbet 
erected for Andre, scarce a tear or a sigh would have been 
produced. The British army detested him, and wherever he 

How was Major Andre discovered ? 

9. What became of Arnold? What was the sad fate of the gifted 
Andre 1 Did any one love or respect Arnold 1 



THE REVOLUTION. 137 

went the finger of scorn pointed him out as "the traitor 
Arnold." His future life was a wretched one — stung with 
remorse, censured by every honest heart, he could only drag 
out a miserable existence. Truly the way of the transgressor 
is hard. 




^*^^»,^^ 



138 



History of the united states. 



CHAPTEK YII. 




MMEDIATELY Arnold joined the British 
army, and began by every means in his power 
to destroy the lives and property of his coun- 
trymen. He was sent on an expedition for 
plunder, and set on fire several places, among 
which w^as his native village. 

Yery important battles were fought at the South 
during this campaign. The soldiers there loved 
General Greene very much. They often said if they 
were so unfortunate as to lose Washington, General Greene 
would be the man of their choice to command them. 

2. At Cowpens the Americans, under the brave Colonel 
Morgan, were victorious. They were glad of this victory, 
because they gained it over the infamous Colonel Tarleton. 
The British lost 10 officers and 129 privates killed, and 29 
officers and 200 wounded. The Americans lost 12 men killed, 
and 60 wounded. Congress gave Colonel Morgan a gold 
medal as a reward for his bravery at Cowpens. 



1. What did Arnold afterwards do as a British soldier ? 
love General Greene ? 

2. What happened at Cowpens % 



Did the soldiers 



THE REVOLUTION. 139 

3. Cornwallis did not like to hear of the defeat of his 
favorite general, and he determined to take the field in person. 
You can read in our larger history how Cornwallis followed 
up General Greene, and how God evidently protected the 
Americans. At Guilford Court-house, in ISTorth Carolina, a 
very severe battle was fought. The British gained some 
advantage, but Fox, a British member of Parliament, said, 
" Another such metory will ruin the British armyr 

At Eutaw Springs General Greene obtained a great victory 
over the British. This action nearly finished the war in 
South Carolina. 

4. It is almost impossible to describe the utter destitution 
of General Greene's army. Whole ranks were barefooted, 
nearly all in rags, and hundreds entirely naked. General 
Greene's heart ached as he saw his wretched band pressing 
on to battle under the flag of liberty. Many a time the hero, 
so noted for his bravery, wept, and his voice choked with 
emotion as he beheld their sufi"erings. The manly heart, 
which neither toil nor danger could subdue, sunk under the 
tide of love and pity for his men. Those tears and those 
gushings of sympathy honor the chieftain more than the 
laurels of victory. General Greene's name will go down to 
posterity beside that of Washington. His soldiers loved him 
with devotion, and they would go with him willingly where- 
ever he commanded. 

3. What other battles were fought in the South 1 

4. What was the situation of General Greene's army % What is said 
here of General Greene % 



140 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Unlike Gates, he shared the toils and dangers with his 
troops. Unlike Gates also, he was too noble-sonled to be 
jealous of Washington, for, next to America, he loved 
Washington the best. 

5. Lord Cornwallis, finding General Greene so successful, 
marched to Virginia, collected his forces, and fortified him- 
self at Yorktown. On his route, his army spread desolation 
and suffering in every direction. Washington immediately 
resolved to gather all the forces he could muster and attack 
Cornwallis. He made the enemy believe he was going to 
attack Sir Henry Clinton at 'New York, instead of Lord 
Cornwallis in Virginia. This kept General Clinton from 
sending troops to Yorktown. General Lafayette was sent on 
with some men to watch the British, and soon after Wash- 
ington very quietly left his camp at White Plains, crossed 
over the Hudson with his army, and marched as rapidly as 
possible through New Jersey and Pennsylvania. We have 
told you that the British army spread ruin wherever they 
went. Not so the Americans. Washington would not allow 
them unnecessarily to commit any depredation. 

6. Clinton did not find out that Washington had gone 
South until it was too late to pursue him. When Washington 
reached Chester, he heard the cheering news of the welcome 
arrival in the Chesapeake of twenty-four French ships, under 
Count de Grasse. The French troops landed and j oined their 

5. At what place did Lord Cornwallis fortify himself? How did the 
conduct of the American army differ from the British ? 

6. What cheering news did Washington soon hear 1 



THE REVOLUTION. 141 

forces with the Americans. The British army was blockaded 
by land and sea. A close siege commenced, and finally Lord 
Cornwallis was obliged to surrender. On the 19th of October, 
1781, this glorious event took place. The British army, mili- 
tary stores and shipping, and 7,073 prisoners, fell into the 
hands of General Washington. 

7. This battle decided the great contest in favor of America. 
Then there was joy all over the union. Merrily the bells 
rung, cannons were fired in quick succession, and bonfires 
and illuminations shone all over the land. What joy ! What 
joy! For seven dark, long years, the land had shaken to 
the tread of arm^ies. Wives and husbands -had been sepa- 
rated, and thousands of happy famihes broken up. A horrid 
thought that perhaps England would be victorious, had borne 
down their spirits by day and night. But now their toils 
were ended. Their haughty foe was conquered ! They would 
be bondmen no longer ! Before the first burst of joy was 
over, Washington ordered divine service to be performed in 
the different brigades of the army. Congress resolved to go 
in procession to church, to return public thanks to the God 
of armies for this signal victory. Washington liberated all 
persons under arrest, that all might partake of the general 

8. On the 30th of November, 1782, peace was declared, au'^^ 

What great event took place on the 19th of October, 1781 ? 
7. What was decided by this battle ? 
How did the Americans show their joy ? 
What did Washington immediately order ? 



142 HISTOEY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

Great Britain acknowledged tlie Independence and Sovereignty 
of the United States of America. Thus the patriots obtained 
compensation for the streams of blood which their compa- 
nions-in-arms had so freely shed. 

9. In 1Y83, the army was disbanded. They were very 
poor, but they were freemen. Henceforth their hardly-earned 
money would be all their own, and not paid out in taxes to 
profligate governors. On the 25th of November, the British 
evacuated New York. It was a very affecting sight to see 
Washington take leave of his soldiers and officers. With 
much emotion, their beloved chieftain took leave of them. 
" Companions-in-arms 1" said he, "I now take my leave of 
you. May your latter days be as prosperous and happy as 
your former ones have been glorious and honorable." With 
tears rolling down his cheeks, he bade his officers adieu. 
They, too, in tears, could only grasp the hand of the much- 
loved Washington, and bid him a silent adieu. He then 
proceeded to Annapolis, the seat of Congress, where he re- 
signed his commission, and hastened to enjoy once more the 
comforts of domestic life at Mount Yernon. 

10. Thus ended the Revolutionary War. By it Great 
Britain lost her devoted and loyal colonies, £100,000,000 
sterling, and 50,000 subjects. The Americans, too, had. lost 

8. When did Great Britain acknowledge the United States free and 
independent 1 

9. When was the patriot army disbanded ? Describe the parting o* 
Washington and his officers. 

10. What did Great Britain lose by the Revolutionary War ? 



THE EEVOLUTION, 



143 



a great deal, and many a brave soldier had been slain in 
battle, but in return they gained their liberty. They could 
now make just laws for themselves, and had a right to govern 
themselves according to their own wishes. 

The wise men of the nation said they must have some rules 
for the people to obey. So they talked the matter over, and 
finally adopted the ''Federal Constitution.'^^ This was in 
September, 1T87. 





EACE has at length dawned on the 
land. After seven long years of 
strife, the dark clouds of war have 

armies, 
whose pathway had been marked 
with fire and blood, no longer tread 
our shores. 

Seven years of war, of darkness 
and gloom, of privation and of suf- 
fering. But all is past, and as the glad shout of peace, " we 
are free, we are free !" echoes from hill-top to hill-top, how 
the heart of the infant nation leaps for joy. 
The land is free, indeed. But where are those who strug- 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 145 



gled so nobly for their country. Mothers, wives, sisters, — 
where are those sons, husbands, and brothers, choking down 
your tears, you sent forth to the battle-field? Some have 
returned to enjoy with you the fruits of peace. More, alas, 
have moistened with their blood the soil they loved, and left 
their bones on the hills they struggled so bravely to defend ! 

The seven years of war are in truth over ; but how many 
pleasant places have been wasted by fire and sword ! how 
many homes made desolate, how many hearts saddened with 
the loss of a husband, brother, father, or lover ! We may, 
in truth, say that this young republic was born in the midst 
of sufi'ering, and baj^tized in blood and tears. 

At the close of the war in 1Y83, the United States owed a 
debt of more than forty millions of dollars. Even the in- 
terest of this they were unable to pay ; and, as a matter of 
course, thousands of poor soldiers and others, to whom the 
government were indebted, lost that to which they were 
rightly entitled. 

At length it became clear that the young nation must 
adopt some distinct form of government, or the very liberties 
they had fought so hard to obtain, would slip from their 
grasp. 

Accordingly, in May, 1787, deputies from each of the 
states, except Ehode Island, met at Philadelphia to form a 
new constitution. This it was not easy to do. After nearly 
four months had passed in discussion, sometimes fierce and 
bitter, without any prospect of completing their labors, the 
great and good Dr. Franklin rose and reminded the conven- 

7 



146 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

tion that they seemed to have forgotten their indebtedness to 
God, that He governs the affairs of men, and expressed his 
belief that, without His aid, they could not succeed in their 
political bviilding ; their projects would be confounded, and 
themselves become a reproach and a by-word to future ages. 
He therefore moved that henceforth, morning and evening, 
prayers should be offered, imploring the aid and blessing of 
Heaven. The suggestion was ado^Dted. Greater harmony 
now prevailed, and in a short time their labors were com- 
pleted. The result was the present Constitution of the 
United States, which, shortly after its adoption in conven- 
tion, was adopted by the several states of the union. 

Who among the great men of the nation will the people 
select as their first President? The choice is not difficult. 
The eyes of a nation are turned to Mount Yernon, and 
Washington is called from the quiet of domestic life to pre- 
side over the infant nation. 

What did Dr. Franklin advise Congress to do ? What was the result? 







Washington's administration. 147 




CHAPTEE I. 

OST proper was it, that he who had stood at 
the post of danger in the hour of trial, 
whose calm, clear voice had so often been 
heard above the roar of battle, whose wis- 
dom and courage had so often buoyed up sinking 
hopes, should be selected as the first chief ruler of 
his country. 

Washington received the news of his election 
while on his farm in Yirginia. New York was 
then the seat of government, and to that place it was neces- 
sary he should go to assume the duties of his office. In his 
journey from Virginia to New York, he was everywhere re- 
ceived with the utmost affection. Old soldiers gathered 
around him, and all hastened to catch a look of him they had 
learned to love so well. 

2. At Trenton, the ladies erected a triumphal arch, orna- 
mented with flowers, inscribed on the front with " The de- 
fenders of the, mothers will he the protectors of the daughter s.'''^ 
As he approached the arch, a procession of ladies met him, 
with their little daughters dressed in white, and as they 



1. Who was chosen President? 

2. How was he honored on his route to New York ? 



148 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

strewed his pathway with flowers, sung a glad song of wel- 
come. 

3. On the 30th of April, 1Y89, at the old Federal Hall, 
which then stood near where the custom-house now stands, 
Washington was inaugurated first President of the United 
States. In the open gallery of the City Hall, the solemn 
oath of ofl&ce was administered to him before a countless 
multitude. Reverently he bowed to idss the sacred volume, 
and promised, to the best of his ability, to defend, preserve, 
and protect the Constitution of the "United States. This was 
the crowning act of the War of Independence. The corner- 
stone of the great Temple of Liberty was laid, and the dawn 
of a new era broke upon the world. 

Notwithstanding at that time there were but thirteen states, 
and the population of the nation numbered only about three 
millions, yet great judgment and sMlful statesmanship were 
required in the commencement of a new government. 

4. Fortunately for the world, and the future success of the 
nation, men were placed at the head of the various depart- 
ments of state possessed of powerful minds and far-reaching 
views of statesmanship. They were actuated not by selfish 
interests, but by a strong love of country, and the hope that 
it might one day become a great and powerful nation, which 
should be the home of freedom and a refuge for the perse- 
cuted and oppressed. 

3. Where was Washington inaugurated ? 4. What characters had the 
officers of the new 2;overnment 1 



Washington's administration. 149 

5. In the second session of Congress, which commenced Jan- 
nary 8th, 1790, the government assumed its own foreign and 
domestic debts, amounting to fifty-four millions of dollars, 
and also that which several states contracted during the war, 
estimated at twenty-five millions. To pay these debts, the 
proceeds from the sale of public lands lying in the western 
territory were appropriated. 

6. In 1791, Vermont became a state. In 1792, Kentucky was 
admitted into the union, making the number of states fifteen. 
The first settlement made in this state was in 1775. A bold 
hunter, named Daniel Boone, was shoveling away some earth 
and preparing to build a house, when the news of the battle 
of Lexington reached him. So the first settlement was called 
Lexington. 

A portion of the Indian tribes northwest of the Ohio river, 
were still engaged in war, directing their hostilities princi- 
pally against the frontiers of Kentucky. In 1791, General 
St. Clair experienced a disastrous defeat near the Miami 
village. In 1794, General Wayne totally defeated the In- 
dians,' and in 1795, a treaty was concluded with all the hostile 
tribes, on terms mutually satisfactory. 

7. Serious apprehensions were entertained of another war 
between the United States and England. The Americans 
were accused of preventing loyalists from regaining posses- 

5. What debts had the United States 1 

6. Why was the first settlement in Kentucky called Lexington ? 

7. Why did people fear a war would break out between England and 
America 1 



150 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

sion of their estates, and the English of making illegal 
seizures of American property at sea, and of holding pos- 
session of military posts on the western frontier. Mr. Jay 
was sent to England, where he concluded a satisfactory treaty 
with the British government. 

In 1Y96, Tennessee was admitted into the union. 

8. Washington declined being President longer, having 
already served two terms, amounting to eight years. John 
Adams was chosen as his successor, and Thomas Jefferson 
elected as Yice-President. Adams was inaugurated on the 
4:th of March, 1797. 

It had been strongly advised by Washington that the seat 
of government should be removed to a more central situation 
than ISTew York or Philadelphia. Accordingly a tract of 
country, ten miles square, was ceded to the United States by 
Maryland and Virginia. 

This tract lies on both sides of the Potomac. A city was 
laid out on the Maryland side, bearing the name of the 
" Father of his country," Washington. Thither the public 
offices were removed in 1800, and Congress met here for the 
first time. The city is four miles square, and elegantly laid 
out. 

9. On the 14th of December, 1799, General Washington 
died at Mount Yernon, in the 68th year of his age. He 
died as he had lived, calm and resigned to the will of God. 

8. Who was the next President ? Where was the new seat of govern- 
ment located 1 

9. When did Washington die 1 What is said of his death ? 



ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION. 151 

His death struggle was painful in the extreme. He said, 
" I die hard, but I am not afraid to die." Noble Washing- 
ton ! The nation bowed themselves in grief at his loss. All 
felt that they had lost a friend. 

10. The land was hung in crape, and minute-guns were 
fired as the more than kinglj sleeper was borne to his last 
resting-place. His old war-horse, saddled and bridled, walked 
riderless beside the coffin. 'No people ever mourned for so 
great a leader. Even France, then deluged in blood, put on 
crape, by order of jN^apoleon. 

The memory of Washington will ever be revered by the 
good, for the purity of his character and high-souled pa- 
triotism. 




152 



HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES 



CHAPTEE II 




iN" 1801, Thomas Jefferson ^as elected Presi- 
dent, and Aaron Burr Yice-President. In 
1802, Ohio was admitted into the union. In 
the same year, Spain ceded Louisiana to France. 
In the year following, the United States pur- 
chased the whole territory of Louisiana from France 
for $15,000,000. 

ISTotwithstanding harmony now existed between the 
United States and the great European powers, the 
Americans had been engaged since 1801 in a vexatious war 
with Tripoli, one of the Barbary States, situated on the north 
coast of Africa. 

These states were pirates, capturing the vessels of all 
nations who did not pay them annual tribute. This tribute 
the United States at length determined not to pay. 

2. In 1803, they sent several ships to the Mediterranean 
sea, under Commodore Preble. Captain Bainbridge com- 
manded the Philadelphia, and, in chasing a vessel into the 
harbor of Tripoli, ran his ship on a rock. Himself and 

1. Who was President in 1801 1 What new states were admitted into 
the union at this time ? With whom were the United States at war 1 

2. What took place in 1803 1 



Jefferson's administration. 153 

crew were then taken 'prisoners. The officers were treated as 
prisoners of war, but the crew were chained and compelled 
to labor as slaves. Soon after, Commodore Decatm^, with 
twenty men and a pilot, one dark evening, cautiously ap- 
proached the Philadelphia, which was then at anchor in the 
harbor guarded by the enemy, and set it on fire. 

3. The American prisoners were treated with great cruelty. 
Captain Eaton united his forces with Hamet, an expelled 
Bashaw, crossed a desert of five hundred miles, and, after a 
battle of two hours and a half, took possession of Derne, the 
capital of a large province of Tripoli. The Bashaw was 
alarmed, and readily consented to terms of peace. 

4. England was accustomed to search American vessels for 
British seamen, and in this way frequently carried ofi" Ame- 
rican citizens, and compelled them to perform the duties of 
the British navy. 

The frigate Chesapeake, while near the coast of the United 
States, was fired on by an English ship. Three of her men 
were killed, and eighteen wounded. Four of her men were 
carried off, under pretence that they were English sailors. 
It was afterwards proved that three of them were American 
citizens. 

5. This state of affairs could not last long. The United 
States could not, with any regard for her national honor, 

3. How were the American prisoners treated ? 

4. What were the English often accused of, regarding seamen? De- 
scribe the attack of the Chesapeake. 

5. Why were there signs of war between England and America 1 



154: HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, 



permit her citizens to be carried away, or submit to the often 
repeated insults to her national flag. 

The sky was again becoming dark and threatening. At 
the close of Mr. Jefferson's second term of office, war between 
the two nations, unless England desisted from her unjust 
course, was inevitable. 

In 1809, James Madison was elected President, and George 
Clinton Yice-President. 




Madison's administration. 155 



CHAPTEE III. 

WAR WITH GREAT BRITAIN. 

AE, is a fearful scourge. It breaks up the 
family circle. It carries woe and misery 
through the land. But when the strong 
insult and trample on the rights of another 
nation, war is inevitable. No nation would 
be justifiable in submitting to such insults, or in bear- 
ing patiently such wrongs. When a nation ceases to 
be able to protect her own citizens, she may as well 
cease to exist as a nation. 
In 1810, Great Britain, still persisting in her hostile plans, 
had stationed vessels of war before the principal harbors in 
the United States to impress seamen from our merchant 
vessels and insult our national flag. 

In one instance, however, their insolence was punished as 
it deserved. Commodore Rogers, sailing in the frigate 
President, met in the evening, near the coast of Virginia, 
the British sloop-of-war Little Belt, and hailed her. A shot 

1. What did Great Britain continue to do in 1810 ? What reception did 
the sloop-of-war Little Belt receive from Rogers 1 




156 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

was the only reply. The fire was instantly returned, and 
continued until the enemy's guns were silenced. 

2. While war was thus kindling between England and 
America, other events of no less interest were transpiring on 
our western frontiers. 

Tecumseh^ a celebrated chieftain of great eloquence, and 
his twin-brother, called the Prophet, gained a strong ascen- 
dancy over the minds of the Indians, and united them in a 
firm compact against the United States. 

Governor Harrison marched against them, and on the 6th 
of November encamped at Tippecanoe. ISTotwithstanding, 
Tecumseh sent messengers, agreeing that hostilities should 
be deferred till morning, Harrison did not believe him, and 
therefore drew up his men in battle array, and ordered them 
to repose on their arms. Towards morning the Indians, be- 
lieving the whites all asleep, rushed on them. But their 
treachery did not save them, for, after a bloody fight, the 
Indians were totally routed. 

3. On the 19th of July, 1812, war was formally declared 
against Great Britain. 

The first military enterprise undertaken, was the invasion 
of Canada by General Hull, the governor of Michigan terri- 
tory. On the 12th of Ju.ly, with 2,000 troops. General Hull 

2. What was Tecumseh doing on the western frontier ? Who com- 
manded the American forces % Where was a battle fought, and who was 
victorious *? 

3. When was war with England declared? What was the first military- 
enterprise "^ 



WAR WITH GREAT BRITAIN. 157 

crossed the river at Detroit and encamped at Sandwich, with 
the object of marching on the British post at Maiden, and 
from thence proceeding to Montreal. 

In the meantime, he received news that Maiden had been 
re-inforced, and that Mackinaw, an American post above 
Detroit, had surrendered to the British and Indians. Greneral 
Hull, panic-struck, in spite of the entreaties of the officers, 
and the indignation of his troops, hastened back to Detroit. 
The inhabitants of Canada, who had confided in his protec- 
tion, by this disgraceful and cowardly retreat, were abandoned 
to the mercies of the British. 

4. On the 15th of August, Greneral Brock, the commander 
of Maiden, stationed himself opposite Detroit, and sent a 
summons to Hull to surrender. Hull replied that he would 
defend the fort to the last extremity. 

The next day, when the English were advancing to the 
attack, and the American troops drawn up in order of battle, 
in numbers superior to the English and Indians, were anx- 
iously waiting to commence the fight, they were suddenly 
ordered within the fort, and a white flag hung from the 
walls in token of submission. This shameful surrender, by 
which an important post and a vast amount of am.munition 
passed into the hands of the English, excited the anger and 
mortification, not only of the officers and troops, but the 

What intelligence did Hull receive ? What did he do ? 

4. When did General Brock station himself opposite Detroit? What 
message did he send to Hull, and what did Hull reply ? What did Hull do 
the next day, when the English troops were advancing to battle ? 



158 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

whole nation. Hull was afterwards tried before a court-mar- 
tial, convicted of cowardice, and sentenced to death. On ac- 
count of his age, however, he was pardoned by the President. 

5. On the 13th of October, General Yan Eenssalaer, with 
a force composed mostly of E"ew York militia, made an 
attack on Queenstown on the Niagara frontier. The Eng- 
lish, receiving a re-inforcement of one thousand men, and a 
portion of the American troops refusing to cross the river, 
the republican army was obliged to surrender. During the 
battle. General Yan Eenssalaer was wounded, and General 
Brock, the English commander, killed. 

While our troops were experiencing defeat on land, on the 
water the American flag was victorious. 

6. On the 19th of August, three days after the shameful 
defeat of Hull, a series of splendid victories were com- 
menced by Captain Isaac Hull of the United States frigate 
Constitution, who, after an obstinate fight, conquered the 
British frigate Guerriere, commanded by Captain Dacres. 

Captain Porter, of the Essex, in a daring attempt, captured 
a brig from a convoy, and found on board $14,000 and 150 
soldiers. He shortly after captured the Albert. On the 18th 
of October, Captain Jones, of the sloop-of-war Wasp, cap- 
tured the brig Frolic, after a long and bloody engagement. 

Of what was Hull convicted by a court-martial 1 Why was he pardoned 1 

5. What battle was fought on the 13th of October, and who were vic- 
torious ? 

6. When did the contest take place between the Constitution and Guer- 
riere 1 What did Capt. Porter capture 1 What did Capt. Jones capture 1 



WAR WITH GREAT BRITAIN. 159 

7. On the 25th of October, the brave and gallant Decatur, 
commanding the frigate United States, after a bloody action 
of an hour and a half, captured the Macedonian, which was 
manned with three hundred men. 

In December the Constitution, (sometimes called Old Iron- 
sides) commanded by Captain Bainbridge, captured the Java, 
a large frigate, manned with four hundred men. 

Thus, on the ocean, victory hovered over the American 
flag ; and, in many a well-contested fight and glorious victory, 
the proud and haughty foes were humbled, and their claim 
to the title of " Mistress of the Seas " forever silenced. Be- 
sides this glorious series of victories by our navy, the Ameri- 
can privateers had taken during the year two hundred and 
fifty British vessels, and three thousand prisoners. 

7. What vessel did Decatur capture ? What did Captain Bainbridge 
capture % 




160 



HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



CHAPTEE lY. 

WAE WITH GEEAT BRITAIN, CONTINUED. 

OW the whole northern frontier of the 
United States was included in the arena of 
war. The army of the west, commanded 
by General Harrison, was stationed at the 
head of Lake Erie. Generals Dearborn, Hamp- 
ton, and Winchester, were the other American 
generals, stationed also at the north. The British 
forces were under the general superintendence of 
Sir George Provost, under whom were Colonels 
Proctor and Yincent. 

2. Early in January, the inhabitants of Frenchtown"^ gave 
information that they feared an attack from a large body of 
British and Indians. A body of Americans went to their 
relief, and drove the enemy from the place. Before they 
left Frenchtown, they were attacked by a force of British 

1. By whom was the army of the west commanded 1 Who were the 
other American generals ? Who commanded the British forces 1 

2. What is said of the contest at Frenchtown 1 




* Frenchtown is situated on the river Raisin, twenty-six miles from Detroit 



W A-R WITH GREAT BRITAIN. 161 

and Indians, under the cruel Colonel Proctor. The Ameri- 
cans were routed : many of them were killed, and nearly 
five hundred taken prisoners, among whom was General 
Winchester. 

Proctor pledged his honor that their lives and property 
should be secure. But the honor of a wicked man is not to 
be trusted. 

Scarcely had the Americans surrendered, when the swords 
of the officers were taken from them : many of them were 
stripped nearly naked and robbed. The Indians were allowed 
to strip and scalp the dead ; and the prisoners, instead of 
being guarded by British soldiers, were given to the Indians, 
who either reserved them to be roasted at the stake or to be 
ransomed at a very high price. The soldiers, thus massacred 
and tortured, were sons of the most respectable families in 
Kentucky. Their mangled remains lay exposed to the storm 
and sun, or the beasts of the forest, for months, before their 
afflicted friends dared to gather together their bleaching 
bones for the tomb. This barbarous action has disgraced the 
name of Proctor among Americans, but the British rewarded 
him with the rank of Major-general in the army. 

3. When General Harrison heard the sad story of the 
defeat at Frenchtown, he erected fort Meigs. Here he was 
besieged by General Proctor with one thousand British, and 
twelve hundred Indians. An express was sent for twelve 
hundred militia from Kentucky under General Clay to assist 

Did not Proctor violate his word 1 How were the dead treated 1 
3. What did General Harrison do when he heard of the massacre? 



162 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

General Harrison. After many attacks, the British finally 
were compelled to retire. Proctor then proceeded to fort 
Stephenson on the Sandusky river. This fort was com- 
manded by young Major Croghan, with 150 men. Proctor 
was again defeated. 

4. In the latter part of April, the heroic General Pike was 
sent with 1,Y00 men to attack York, the capital of Upper 
Canada. He had nearly succeeded in the capture when he 
was mortally wounded by the explosion of a magazine. He 
shouted, " move on, my brave fellows !" and, like the gallant 
Wolfe, he died in the arms of victory. He was carried on 
board a vessel, and soon after died with the flag which had 
waved over the fort at his head. 

]>[othing important was gained by either power during the 
remainder of the spring along the Canada line. 

5. A terrible warfare was at this time being carried on 
at some parts of the sea-board, and on the ocean. The 
British blockaded Chesapeake Bay, and made excursions on 
land, plundering property, burning villages, and treating the 
inhabitants with great barbarity. 

On the first of June, the Americans experienced the loss 
of the frigate Chesapeake, which was captured by the British 
frigate Shannon off Boston harbor. The loss was more se- 
verely felt, because on board of her fell some brave ofiicers, 

When was Proctor again defeated 1 

4. What is said of General Pike 1 

5. What did the British do round ChesapeaJte Bay 1 What is said of 
the loss of the frigate Chesapeake 1 



WAR WITH GREAT BRITAIN. 163 

among whom was the gallant commander. Captain Lawrence. 
After he was wounded, as he was being carried below, with 
a musket-ball lodged in his body, he issued his last heroic 
order, " JDonH give up the shvp P'' 

On the 14:th of August, we also lost the Argus. It was 
captured by the Pelican. 

6. On the 5th of September, the tide of fortune turned in 
our favor. The British brig Boxer surrendered to the Enter- 
prise. But Lieutenant Burrows, the lamented commander 
of the Enterprise, was mortally wounded. After the sur- 
render, as the sword of the enemy was presented to him, he 
exclaimed, ^' I die contented P'' The British commander was 
also killed, and both commanders were buried side by side at 
Portland. 

Commodore Perry obtained a splendid victory on Lake 
Erie, which he described to General Harrison in the fol- 
lowing brief letter : '' We have met the enemy, and they a/re 
ours — two ships, two brigs, one schooner, and one sloop." 

7. The Emperor of Russia, wishing to see an end put to 
the war between the British and Americans, offered to be a 
mediator. Great Britain declined the offer, but was willing 
to meet commissioners directly from America. 

Commissioners were sent out from this country, among 
whom were John Quincy Adams and Henry Clay. They 

What other vessel did the Americans lose 1 

6. What took place on the 5th of September'? 

7. What offer did the Emperor of Russia make "? Why were commis- 
sioners sent to Ghent ? 



164: HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

were to meet at Ghent in Flanders, and commence the 
pleasing task of reconciliation. 

8. At this" time a war broke out with the Creek Indians 
living in the southern United States. Many of the Creeks 
were dissatisfied with the advance of civilization in their 
tribe, and others were stirred up to strife by presents and 
arms from the British government, made with a view of 
enlisting them against the United States. 

The Creeks held out for a long time. General Jackson 
and General Floyd, with about 2,500 men, were sent against 
them. Their country was laid waste, their villages burned, 
and many lives lost on both sides. At Tallapoosa, where the 
final battle was fought, six hundred warriors lay dead on the 
field, and their chief mournfully exclaimed, "While there 
was a chance for success, I never asked for peace ; but my 
people are gone, and I now ask it for my nation and myself." 
On the 9th of August, 1814, a treaty was made with them 
by General Jackson, in which they promised to take no more 
bribes from the British, and to allow the whites free naviga- 
tion of their rivers, and the opening of roads through their 
lands. 

9. War was still carried on between the British and Ame- 
ricans. The eastern states now suflfered the fearful calami- 
ties of war. 

8. What war broke out at the South ? Describe the Creek war. What 
was the result "? 

9. What part of the United States suffered now from war 1 



WAR WITH GREAT BRITAIN. 165 

The American navy in every action sustained the same 
character for bravery by which its glory was acquired. On 
land the battles of Chippewa and Niagara did equal honor 
to the bravery of the troops, and showed that the same de- 
termined spirit of opposition to the tyrannical foe reigned on 
land as on the sea. 

10. In June, intelligence was received of the complete 
overthrow of ]^apoleon Bonapaxte, and the Americans feared 
that the British, having vanquished this great foe, would 
renew hostilities with increased ardor. These fears were soon 
realized. The white sails of a fleet of twenty-one sail of the 
line arrived in Chesapeake Bay, and another fleet from Ber- 
muda. Accompanying these were several thousand land 
troops from the victorious army of Lord Wellington, the 
conqueror of Napoleon Bonaparte. These were commanded 
by General Eoss. 

11. On the 23d of August, six thousand British troops 
forced their way to Washington, the capital of the United 
States, burnt the capitol, its valuable libraries. President's 
house, and other public buildings, and the great bridge across 
the Potomac. What a disgraceful action ! The wanton 
destruction of a nation's pride and ornament — the destruc- 
tion of which could not hasten the termination of the war. 

The British next attacked Baltimore, which was resolutely 

What is said of the American navy ? 

10. What intelligence was received in June ? 

11. What took place in August? Was not this a disgraceful act? 



166 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

defended. General Koss, the British commander, was among 
the killed. 

12. Notwithstanding the American and British commis- 
sioners were still engaged at jGrhent, the British continued 
active warfare. Early in December, 1814, a British fleet 
of sixty sail appeared off the coast east of the Mississippi 
river. Fifteen thousand British troops, under Sir Edward 
Packenham, soon after landed, and attacked the American 
entrenchments before New Orleans. He was compelled to 
retire. On the 1st of January, the British were again re- 
pulsed ; and on the 8th occurred the famous battle of New 
Orleans. 

General Packenham with 12,000 men advanced, determined 
to defeat the Americans, who, under the brave General 
Jackson, were arranged in a straight line of a thousand 
yards. As the enemy approached within reach of the mus- 
ketry, the long line of the Americans poured on them one 
sheet of fire, and hundreds of the British fell at every dis- 
charge. 

The British soon became disordered and fled. General 
Packenham, who was a brother-in-law of the celebrated Lord 
Wellington, in an attempt to rally the troops, was killed. 
Generals Gibbs and Kean attempted to push forward the 
retreating troops, and they in turn were severely, the former 

What place was next attacked ? 

12. When did a British fleet appear off the Mississippi ? How many 
British troops landed 1 By whom were they commanded 1 What place 
did he attack ? When did the famous battle of New Orleans take place ? 



CONCLUSION OF THE WAR 



167 




Jackson's victory at New Orleans. ^ 

mortally wounded. The field of battle was literally covered 
with dead and wounded men. The British lost on this 
memorable day nearly 3,000 men. Seven hundred slept 
in death, and one thousand four hundred were wounded. The 
Americans lost only seven 'killed and six wounded. 

13. This is the last military achievement we have to record. 
The enemy thought best to retire secretly, and great joy 
reigned throughout the American camp and throughout the 
United States. Scarcely had the glad shout of triumph died 
away, when the still more welcome news arrived of a treaty 



How many English soldiers were there 1 Who commanded the Ame- 
ricans % What was the result of the battle ? How many of the enemy 
were killed and wounded ] How many of the Americans ? 



168 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

of peace^ which was signed at Ghent on the 24th of Decem- 
ber, 1814. On the 17th of February, this treaty was ratified 
by the President and Senate. 

All parties welcomed peace once more — the soldier, the 
sailor, and the people generally — all gladly returned to their 
accustomed occupations. 

Great Britain proved the strength and spirit of our rising 
republic ; and our security against future wars rests on a 
firmer basis than the most solemn treaty. 

14. In 1816, Congress voted an annual appropriation of 
one million of dollars, during eight years, to increase the 
naval force of the United States, and re-establish a national 
bank. 

In December, 1816, Indiana became an independent state, 
and was received into the union. 

In 1816, the American Bible Society was formed at New 
York. The American Tract Society, its twin-sister in doing 
good, was instituted in 1814. 

13. When was the treaty of peace signed ? When ratified ? 

14. What appropriation did Congress vote in 1816? 



monkoe's administk ation. 



169 



CHAPTEE y 




T the next Presidential election, held in 1816, 
James Monroe of- Yirginia, was chosen Pre- 
sident, and Daniel D. Tompkins of New 
York, Yice-President. ' 

Peace now reigned throughout the land. 
The energies of the nation, instead of being employed 
in war, were directed to the development of the 
immense resources of the country. In a short time, 
continued prosperity relieved the land from embar- 
rassments, which are the necessary consequences of war. 

In 181Y, Mississippi was admitted into the union ; and in 
the following year, Illinois added one more to the now rapidly 
increasing sisterhood of states. 

2. During the year 1818, a bloody war was carried on be- 
tween the Seminole Indians and the United States. General 
Gaines was sent to reduce them to submission. His force, 
however, was too small, and General Jackson was ordered to 



1. Who was the next President? When was Indiana admitted into the 
union ? When Mississippi and Illinois ? 

2. What bloody war was carried on in 1818 1 Why did not General 
Gaines succeed in reducing them to submission ? 

8 



lYO HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

take command, and raise from the surrounding states what 
force was necessary. Jackson soon succeeded in bringing 
the Indians to terms. During the war, he took possession of 
St. Marks, a Spanish garrison. Finding there two men who 
had been busily engaged in exciting the Indians to hostilities, 
they were tried by a court-martial and executed. 

3. In 1819, the United States acquired Florida, another 
large addition to their territory, which was ceded to them 
by Spain. Spain had now no possessions left to her on the 
Atlantic coast of North America. She now had but a slight 
foothold in that new world which was discovered by navi- 
gators sailing from her ports. 

In this year, Alabama was admitted into the union, and 
the year following, Maine became an independent state. In 
1821, Missouri applied for admission ; and then the question 
arose, " Shall she be admitted as a slave state ?" Fierce and 
angry w^as the discussion, but at length it w^as decided in the 
affirmative, and Missouri added one more to the list of states. 

At the next election, Mr. Monroe was a second time chosen 
President. 

4. During the summer of 1824, the Marquis de Lafayette 
paid a visit to the land whose cause he had adopted in its 



Who at length brought them to terms 1 Why were two men executed at 
St. Marks'? 

3. What additional territory did the United States acquire in 1819 ? 
When were Alabama and Maine admitted into the union 1 When Mis- 
souri 1 

4. When did Lafayette visit this country 1 



Monroe's administration. 171 

darkest hours, and whose liberties he had assisted so much in 
establishing. His head was now frosted with the snows of 
seventy winters ; and nearly fifty years had rolled away since 
he had battled side by side with "Washington in the sacred 
cause of liberty. 

From one end of the union to the other, he was received 
with the warmest outbursts of popular feeling ; old and 
young gathered around him, as around a dear but long-absent 
friend, and the shouts of millions of glad hearts rolled 
through the land as the illustrious and dearly-loved guest 
mov^ed through their midst. His was no servile reception. 
Those shouts were not the parrot-cry of trained slaves, but 
the outburst of feeling swelling up from the deep fountains 
of a nation of grateful, happy hearts. 

How changed the land since he had fought in its battles 
and suifered in its cause ! Then it was ravaged by war — 
now all were happy in the enjoyment of peace and liberty! 
But many of his old friends and companions-in-arms were 
not there to meet him, for they slept the sleep of death. The 
form of Washington was mouldering back to dust in the 
tomb of Mount Yernon, and Lafayette felt, as he gazed w^ith 
tearful eye on the sacred dust, that he too must soon join his 
old companions in the world of spirits. 

5. During the war, he had expended nearly all his private 
fortune, but had received no remuneration from this country. 
Congress now presented him $200,000 and a township of 

How was Lafayette received 1 5. What appropriation did Congress 
make to him 1 



172 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

land. The frigate Brandjwine was prepared to convey him 
to his country, and he was attended to the place of embarka- 
tion by the President and most of the public officers in 
Washington. 

John Quincy Adams was chosen the next President, and 
Mr. Calhoun Yice-President. 

Who was chosen the next President 1 




J. Q. ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION. 1Y3 




CHAPTEE YI. 

UEING the administration of Mr. Adams, 
extending from 1825 to 1829, the country 
was eminently prosperous and happy. No 
wars desolated our borders ; manufactories 
increased, sciences flourished, and the coun- 
try was marching on with rapid stride in the path of 
greatness and power. 

On the 50th anniversary of American Independ- 
ence, two venerable ex-Presidents, Adams and Jeffer- 
son, closed their eyes in death. They had stood side by side 
in the cause of their country, and on the same day the sum- 
mons of death called them to their final home. 

2. At the next election, Andrew Jackson was chosen Pre- 
sident, and John C. Calhoun Yice- President. The nation at 
this time was exceedingly prosperous. It was at peace with 
all nations. Agriculture, manufactures, and commerce, were 
in a highly flourishing state, and the treasury had within its 
vaults more than five millions of dollars. 

1. What was the state of the country during Adams' administration? 
When did John Adams and Jefferson die "? 

2. Who was chosen President at the next election 1 What is said of 
the nation at this time 1 



174 HISTORY OF THE UNITED. STATES. 

A bill for re-chartering the United States Bank, passed 
both houses of Congress in 1832. The bill was vetoed by the 
President, so that at the expiration of the charter of the 
bank in 1836, it ceased to be a national institution. 

3. For a time, the most intense excitement prevailed in 
South Carolina respecting a tariff bill, which had passed 
Congress in 1832, imposing additional duties on foreign 
goods. They not only declared, in their own state, but 
boldly maintained in the halls of Congress, in the person of 
their illustrious senator, John C. Calhoun, that the act was 
unconstitutional. The duties, they said, should never be paid 
by South Carolina ; and if government persisted in its 
attempt to enforce payment, they would withdraw from the 
union, and establish an independent government for them- 
selves. 

The President, who knew no fear, nothing daunted by the 
storm, determined to fulfil his duty, declared the law must 
and should be executed, and opposition repelled even by 
force if necessary. It is impossible to say what might have 
been the consequences, had not Mr. Clay introduced a com- 
promise bill providing for the gradual reduction of duties, 
until 1833, when they were to sink to the general level of 
twenty per cent. 

What bill passed Congress in 1832 ? What did the President do with if? 

3. What was the cause of the excitement in South Carolina? What did 
they say ? What did they threaten to do ? What did the President do ? 
What compromise was introduced by Mr. Clay 1 



ADMINISTRATION. 175 



4. In 1833, Jackson was re-elected President, and Martin 
Yan Buren of New York was chosen Yice-President. 

The summer of 1832, will long be remembered as the fatal 
time when the cholera spread desolation over the length and 
breadth of the land. 

During the summer of 1833, the President, accompanied 
by the Yice-President, and several of the secretaries, visited 
Philadelphia, New York, and some parts of ISTew England. 
The President was everywhere received with those demon- 
strations of respect which, notwithstanding differences of 
party, are ever due to the chief ruler of a free and happy 
people. General Jackson had many warm friends, and some 
bitter opponents. He was remarkably firm in his opinions, 
and was often called " Old Hickory." 

In December, 1835, a vast conflagration occurred in New 
York. The weather was intensely cold, so that the fire-en- 
gines could do but little in arresting the fearful progress of 
the flames. Breaking out in the business parts of the city, 
where vast warehouses were filled with rich goods, in a few 
hours, property to the amount of millions of dollars was 
swept away by the devouring flames. 

In April, 1836, Congress passed an act establishing the 
Territory of Wisconsin. 

In June, 1836, Arkansas and Michigan were admitted into 
the union as states. 

4. For what was the summer of 1832 noted 1 What is said of the great 
fire of 1835? When were Arkansas and Michigan admitted into the 
union % 



176 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

5. On the Uh. of March, 1837, Martin Yan Buren of New 
York was inaugurated President of the United States. 

On the morning of the inauguration. General Jackson, 
the ex-President, and Mr. Yan Buren, were driven to the 
capitol in an elegant carriage, made from the timber of the 
frigate Constitution. There was a striking difference in the 
personal appearance of the ex-President and the President 
elect. General Jackson, tall and unbending, firm and stern 
in manner. Mr. Yan Buren, the bland and polished gentle- 
man, and at the same time the talented diplomatist. General 
Jackson never left any one in doubt of his decided opinion, 
and few in political life have had stronger friends or more 
bitter enemies. A new President is always expected to 
deliver an address before he takes the oath of office. Mr. 
Yan Buren's inaugural address was very conciliating in its 
tone. 

6. During Mr. Yan Buren's administration, occurred one 
of the most unfortunate depressions in the money market 
ever known. In the city of ]N'ew York, within two months, 
there were more than two hundred and fifty failures of large 
mercantile houses ; and within a few weeks, more than 
twenty thousand individuals, depending upon their labor for 
their daily bread, were thrown out of employ. It was indeed 
a fearful time. No one durst trust his neighbor. Men, who 

5. Who was the next President? What is said of General Jackson 
and Martin Van Buren? 

6. What unfortunate event occurred during Mr. Van Buren's adminis- 
tration ? What is further said of the scarcity of money ? 



VAN buren's administration. 177 

believed tliey were rich for life at night on retiring, awoke 
bankrupts and without a home in the morning. 

The banks of 'Nqw York city ceased to redeem their notes 
in specie, and this was followed by the suspension of the 
country banks. A large meeting of the citizens of ISTew 
York was held, and a committee of fifty was appointed to 
proceed to Washington to petition the government for relief. 
Some little relief was obtained, but an immense deal of suf- 
fering prevailed in New York and the country generally. 

Various causes were assigned for this public and wide- 
spread distress, among which were over action in business, 
speculation in unproductive lands, the great fire of Decem- 
ber, 1835, &c. 

7. An event occurred during this administration which 
called forth expressions of disapprobation from good people 
all over the land. This was a duel, fought with rifles, near 
the city of Washington, between Messrs. Cilley and Graves. 
On the third fire, Mr. Cilley fell mortally wounded. 

What poor, weak-minded men ! In the bitterness of party 
strife, they madly hated each other's life. So indignant were 
the people, that a law against duelling was passed, making 
the punishment of any duelist hard labor in a penitentiary 
for ten years. If a challenge only were sent, the challenger 
was to be punished by imprisonment for five years. 

There are some really cowardly people who pride them- 

7. What is said of the duel which occurred at this time ? What law 
was passed soon after ? 

8* 



178 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

selves on what tliey call their honor^ and who rudely insult a 
truly brave person who dares refuse a challenge to fight a 
duel. The law provides for these also. All who use scornful 
language to others for refusing to fight, were on conviction 
to be punished as above in a penitentiary for three years. 

I should be happy to see this last clause of the law en- 
forced. The truly brave and good are not afraid of the vile 
slanders of the wicked and scorners. Like a light zephyr on 
polished steel, slander leaves them untarnished. 

8. In 1838, the banks resumed specie payment throughout 
the United States. This produced general joy among the 
people. 

In this year, a tremendous fraud was discovered, which 
had been carried on for years unsuspected by the govern- 
ment. The officer who collected customs at ]^ew York, 
Sam%iel Swa/rtwrnct^ had withheld large sums of money every 
year, for nine years, from the public revenue, without being 
discovered, until the amount was about a million and a 
quarter of dollars. , 

The examination of this disgraceful afiair, showed great 
corruption among public officers generally, which greatly 
alarmed good people who loved the faith and honor of the 
nation. 

The sixth census or numbering of the people of the United 
States, showed the number to be more than 17,000,000. 
When the Kevolution broke out, there were about 3,000,000. 

8. What stupendous fraud was discovered in 1838 1 What is said of it % 



HARRISONS ADMINISTRATION. 



179 



CHAPTEE YII. 




HE whole nation was now interested in the 
choice of the next President. Greneral Wm. 
H. Harrison of Ohio was the whig candi- 
date, and Martin Yan Buren the democratic 
candidate. Never before did party spirit 
rise so high. Thousands of mass meetings were held, 
at which each party, endeavored to get the ascendancy. 
Tlie whigs spoke of General Harrison as the "hero of 
Tippecanoe," and many of their mass meetings were 
held in log cabins erected for the purpose. 

The whigs were at last successful. General Harrison was 
elected President by a greater majority than any President 
had since the days of Washington. 

On the 4tli of March, 1841, General Harrison entered 
upon the arduous duties of President of the United States- 
His inaugural address was well received. It contained a 
beautiful allusion to the Christian religion, and commended 
the interests of our beloved country to the good Being who 
has blessed us with civil and religious liberty. 

All things now seemed to combine for the nation's highest 
good, when sudden intelligence of the grievous illness of the 



1. Who was chosen next President? 



180 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

beloved ruler went like wild-fire over the land. This sad 
news was followed in a few hours by the astounding news of 
his death. 

2. In one short month from the day when he promised to 
be faithful to God and to his country, on the portico of the 
capitol, he was lying in the presidential mansion cold and 
stiff in death. 

The mourning for this unexpected death was sincere all 
over the union. All parties joined in the universal grief, for 
all knew that a good as well as a great man was lost to the 
country forever. But we have the good example of the 
pious dead ever before us. From early life, General Harri- 
son had been trained by a pious mother to be a man of firm 
principles and strict integrity. When he last visited Yir- 
ginia, he occupied his mother's apartment, and pointed out 
the corner of the room where she sat to read her Bible, and 
where she taught him on his knees to pray " Our Father 
which art in Heaven." General Harrison never wandered 
from the strict path of duty. Until the close of his eventful 
life, love for the Bible and its teachings were evident to all. 
When he entered the President's house, he saw himself sur- 
rounded by all the elegant articles of furniture necessary for 
a President's mansion, but there was no Bible. He imme- 
diately bought one, as he said, the lest copy he could find, 
and paid for it out of the money appropriated by Congress 
for furniture, &c. 

2. How long after his inauguration did he die ? 



ADMINISTRATION. " 181 



3. On the death of Harrison, John Tyler, the Yice-Presi- 
dent, assumed the duties and office of President of the United 
States. This was in conformity with a provision in the consti- 
tution. During the extra session which had been called by 
Harrison, and which assembled shortly after his death, among 
the important measures which received the sanction of Con- 
gress, were two bills chartering a bank of the United States. 
Both of these bills were vetoed by the President. As the 
establishment of a bank of tlie United States was known to be 
one of the prominent and favorite measures of the whig 
party, the conduct of the President was denounced in the 
strongest terms. His cabinet, indignant at what they con- 
sidered his treachery towards his party, with one exception, 
resigned. 

4. In 1842, a dispute with England, respecting the north- 
eastern boundary line, was negotiated between Mr. Webster 
and Lord Ashburton. This dispute at one time threatened 
to bring on a war between the two countries. 

5. Domestic difficulties, of a somewhat serious character, 
occurred this year in the state of Khode Island. Some of 
the people were dissatisfied with the ancient charter, and 
said they were determined to have a new constitution and a 
new governor. They chose Thomas W. Dorr governor. They 
were strongly opposed by the remainder of the people, who 

3. Who became President on the death of Harrison ? What bills did he 
veto? 

4. What dispute was settled in 1842 1 

5. What is said of the Dorr war 1 



182 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

styled themselves the lam cmd order party ^ and called the 
others insurgents and rebels. Dorr was finally seized, and 
after being convicted of treason, was sentenced to imprison- 
ment for life. A great many people thought the sentence 
was very unjust, and in a short time Dorr was pardoned. 

6. Texas was formerly a province of Mexico, although it 
was settled principally by emigrants from the United States. 
In 1834, the inhabitants said they had suffered the tyranni- 
cal government of the Mexicans as long as they would, anil 
declared themselves independent. After a long and bloody 
war, the Mexicans were defeated, and the independent Texans 
adopted a republican form of government. They soon after 
applied to the United States to be admitted into their glorious 
and happy union. A long discussion took place in the senate. 
One party strongly opposed the admission of Texas as a sister 
state, and the other as strongly advocated the annexation. It 
was not until 1845 that the question was finally settled, and 
Texas was admitted as one of the United States. 

James K. Polk of Tennessee, was next elected President, 
and George M. Dallas of Pennsylvania, Yice-President. 

6. To what country did Texas formerly belong ? What did they apply 
to the United States for shortly after their independence ? 



folk's administration. 183 



CHAPTEE YIII. 

WAR WITH MEXICO. — CAUSES, ETC. 

OE a long time, the Mexicans had committed 
outrages on the persons and property of 
American citizens. Notwithstanding de- 
mands were frequently made for redress, it 
was either refused or the subject evaded. 
In April, 1831, a friendly treaty was concluded 
between the two republics ; yet scarcely had two 
months passed away, before fresh outrages were 
perpetrated by the Mexicans. During Jackson's 
administration, a final demand for redress was made. The 
Mexicans promised the difficulties should be settled, but their 
promises were never fulfilled. 

In 1840, several persons were appointed to ascertain what 
claims of our citizens against the Mexican government should 
be paid. The claims declared good by them amounted to a 
very large sum. Of this sum the Mexicans solemnly declared 
they would pay a certain portion every three months, until 
within five years, the whole should be paid. This promise they 

1. What had the Mexicans done for a long time 1 Did they refuse to 
settle these claims ? 




184: HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

also failed to fulfil, and this violation of their word was one, 
although not the principal cause of the war. 

2. The original boundary line of Texas was the river 
Nueces, but shortly after she had separated from Mexico, 
she declared the Rio Grande should be its boundary. The 
territory between these two rivers was therefore claimed by 
both governments. 

3. Mexico did not have very friendly feelings towards 
Texas. So when Texas was admitted into the union. General 
Taylor was sent with a few troops to the frontiers of Texas, 
to drive back the Mexicans if they should attempt to invade 
the country. Six months after. General Taylor received 
orders from his government to cross the disputed territory, 
and take up his position near the Eio Grande. 

This the Mexicans considered a declaration of w^ar on our 
part. On the 3d of May, the enemy, taking advantage of 
General Taylor's absence at Point Isabel, commenced firing 
on the fort. The day was the Sabbath, but its holy quiet 
was disturbed by the roar of cannon. Day after day, until 
the following Saturday, shots and shells were flying over the 
little band shut up in that solitary fort. They were sur- 
rounded by the enemy and far away from their homes, and 
yet they were determined to defend the fort as long as one 
of them remained alive. 

2. What was the original boundary of Texas ? 

3. Why was Taylor sent to the frontier of Texas 1 When he crossed 
the river what did Mexico so consider it 1 When did they attack fort 
Brown ? 



WAR WITH MEXICO. 185 

General Taylor at Point Isabel heard the roar of can- 
non, and knew that his little garrison at fort Brown were 
in danger. He determined to go to their relief, and on 
the 7th, commenced his march. On the next day, he saw 
the enemy drawn up in order of battle at a place called 
Palo Alto. 

4. Their troops stretched a mile and a half across the plain. 
A little in advance were stationed a thousand lancers. These 
lancers were on fleet horses, and held in their hands a long 
lance, with a little flag flying near the end, so that the enemy 
could not guard against the blow. 

Nothing daunted, our troops were drawn up in battle 
array, and the contest commenced. We do not love to talk 
about battles. There is something awful in the fearful car- 
nage of the battle-field. The roar of the cannon and the 
quick, sharp report of the musket, tell of suffering and death, 
of gaping wounds, shattered limbs, and ghastly corpses. 

As the sun went down on the field of blood, the battle 
ceased. Our little army encamped on the field among their 
dead and dying companions. With 2,300 men, General 
Taylor had beat 6,000. 

The weary night wore slowly away. The ground was 
strewed with the dead and dying, and their blood crimsoned 
the soil. On every side were heard the cries and groans of 
the dead and dying. 

5. On the coming morning, Taylor determined to press on 

4. What did Taylor determine to do ? What battle was fought on the 8th ? 

5. What battle was fought on the 9th ? 



186 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

to the relief of his brave comrades in Fort Brown. But 
another bloody battle was before him. The enemy now oc- 
cupied a strong position, and determined to dispute every 
step of his progress. As our troops came up, the battle of 
Kesaca de la Palma commenced. 

6. The whole army fought with unparalleled bravery, led 
on by officers as brave as ever trod a battle-field. One 
battery, advantageously posted by the enemy, kept up a con- 
stant and fearful fire on our troops. Taylor saw that it must 
be taken, and ordered Captain May to charge the battery 
with his dragoons. May wheeled on his steed, and said to his 
followers, ''men, we must take that lattery ^ They needed 
no further command, but on they rushed, those eighty-two 
stern riders, headed by their fearless commander. One fear- 
ful discharge tore through their ranks, stretching nearly one- 
half their number on the ground, but still on they dashed, 
riding down the artillerymen at their pieces, and bursting 
through the Mexican lines. The battery was taken ; and as 
a wild hurrah went up from our army, they rushed furiously 
on, scattering the enemy like chaff before them. For two 
days the little garrison at Fort Brown had listened to the 
fight, and now as they saw the horsemen dashing wildly over 
the plain, they mounted the rampart, and sent up long and 
loud the shout of victory. The victory was decided and 
complete. 

6. Who did Taylor tell to take the battery? Did he do it? What city 
did General Taylor take ? 



WAR WITH MEXICO. 187 

7. A few days after, General Taylor took possession of the 
city of Matamoras, without resistance. Here he was com- 
pelled to remain for some months, not being able from the 
want of troops and supplies, to follow up his success. 

In the meantime, the enemy, under General Ampudia, had 
concentrated a large force at the city of Monterey. This 
city was strongly fortified, both by nature and art. The 
streets were narrow, and the roofs of the houses flat. At 
the west stood the Bishop's Palace, a fort sti'ongly fortified ; 
on the north, a strong and massive citadel, and on the east, 
three forts, while the river San Juan flowed along the east 
and south. These defences were manned by more than ten 
thousand men. 

8. General Taylor, nothing daunted, determined to take 
the city. Dividing his army into three divisions, one under 
General Worth, one under General Twiggs, and a third under 
General Butler, he commenced the attack on the evening of 
the 21st of September. The battle raged for three days. 
Hand to hand they fought along the narrow streets of the 
city, every door, window, and house-top, pouring down upon 
them a leaden storm of death, yet still they pressed on, 
driving everything before them, until the city was carried, 
and the stars and si/ripes waved in triumph from its walls. 

9. For eight weeks there was now a pause in the tide of 
war. In the meantime, General Santa Anna had concentrated 

7. Describe the city of Monterey. 

8. What did General Taylor do ? 

9. Where did Santa Anna next concentrate his forces ? 



188 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

twenty thousand men at San Luis Pctosi. In February, 
Taylor received small re-inforcements ; but so many of bis 
men bad been withdrawn, that his troops now numbered but 
five thousand men. Hearing that Santa Anna had made an 
attempt to take possession of a line of posts between himself 
and Matamoras, he determined to meet him. Taking his 
position at Buena Yista, on the morning of the 22d of Fe- 
bruary, he drew up his little army in battle array. 

10. Santa Anna sent Taylor a message, telling him he was 
surrounded by twenty thousand men, and offering to treat 
him kindly if he would surrender. But the idea of sur- 
render never entered the head of the brave old General, 
and on the next day, the battle of Buena Yista commenced. 

Five thousand troops, most of whom a few months before 
were pursuing the quiet walks of civil life, now stood face to 
face with twenty thousand soldiers, the flower of the Mexican 
army. Notwithstanding the difference in numbers, our troops 
were still victorioiis. The victory was won, but many a brave 
man slept in death. 

11. The intelligence of these glorious victories flew like 
wild-fire through the states. Congress passed a vote of 
thanks to General Taylor and the men under his command. 

In June, 1846, a dispute, which had long existed between 
Great Britain and America, was amicably settled. 

10. What message did Santa Anna send, and how was it received 1 
What was the result of the battle 1 

11. What vote was passed by Congress? What dispute was settled in 
1846? 



WAR WITH MEXICO. 189 

On the 23d of November, General Scott was ordered to 
take command of the forces assembled in Mexico. Yera 
Cruz, being considered the key to the city of Mexico, his 
operations were to be directed against that place. Early in 
March, he landed with twelve thousand men near Yera 
Cruz. 

12. On the 22d, he sent a summons to the Mexican com- 
mander to surrender the city, allowing ample time for all 
those who wished to leave the city to do so, and take with 
them whatever property they chose. The summons to sur- 
render was rejected, and shortly after the batteries opened 
on the city. From this time, until the morning of the 26th, 
the cannonading continued with but slight intermission. 

The spectacle was one of awful, terrific sublimity. The 
sky was filled with shells, curving in paths of fire through 
the air, while the roar of artillery, and the crash of falling 
houses, mingled with the shrieks of the wounded and terror- 
stricken. The sea was reddened with the glare of burning 
buildings and the broadsides of the ships. The castle of San 
Juan de Ulloa was girded with sheets of flame, as her cannon 
thundered forth their bold defiance. At length the governor 
of the city surrendered. As our troops paarched into the 
city, what a sight met their eyes ! buildings torn to atoms 
or blackened with the fire, while here and there were strewn 

When was General Scott ordered to take command ? Against what 
place were his operations directed ? Where did he land with his army ? 

12. When did he commence the attack ? What is said of the spectacle ? 
Who were victorious "^ 



190 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

torn and bleeding corpses. War is a fearful game. It marks 
its path with blood, and carries desolation to a thousand 
homes. 

13. While our little army was winning laurels on land, 
our brave seamen were not idle. Many important posts 
both on the Pacific coast and the Gulf of Mexico, were taken 
by the navy. 

14. On the 8th of April, ten days after the surrender of 
Yera Cruz, General Twiggs left the city, and took the road to 
Jalapa. On the the 12th, after having on the day before 
driven before them several thousand Mexican lancers, they 
discovered the enemy in front on the heights of a mountain, 
strongly fortified. On the 12th, General Scott arrived. The 
batteries of the enemy were so constructed along the ravines 
and on the mountains, that they could sweep with their balls 
every path by which they could be approached. These for- 
midable entrenchments were defended by fifteen thousand 
men, commanded by Santa Anna, while Scott could only 
bring six thousand men into action, and yet on the 18th, the 
enemy were driven from their position, and the victory 
gained. This was the battle of Cerro Gordo. In it more 
than three thousand prisoners were taken and two hundred 
and eighty-eight officers, among whom were five generals. 

On pressed the victorious troops. Jalapa, Ferote, and 

13. What is said of the navy 1 

14. When did Twiggs commence his march ? What was the result of 
the battle of Cerro Gordo 1 How many prisoners were taken ? What 
other places fell into their hands ? 



WAR WITH MEXICO. 191 

Piiebla, falling in succession into their hands. At the latter 
place, General Scott remained most of the summer. 

15. On the 8th of August, he commenced his march to- 
ward the city of Mexico. On the 10th, they came within 
sight of the lofty steeples and swelling domes of the city. 
The next day, they reached Ayotea, fifteen miles from 
Mexico. From this place to the city, every point was forti- 
fied. The army of Santa Anna numbered twenty-five thou- 
sand men, while ours was only nine thousand. The Mexicans 
fought on their own soil and in defence of their city. 

Step by step our army fought their way on towards the 
city. The bloody battles of Contreras and Cherubusco were 
gained. The army might now have easily marched into the 
city, but Scott, hoping the Mexicans would treat for peace, 
paused in his victorious career. On the 5th of September, 
finding they were fortifying the city contrary to agreement, 
Scott prepared to attack them. The enemy, with ten thou- 
sand men, had strongly entrenched themselves at Molino del 
Rey^ or " the king's mill." On the 8th, three thousand seven 
hundred men drove them from their position with terrific 
slaughter. On the 13th, the fortress of Chepultepec, guard- 
ing the city, was carried, and the batteries on the road lead- 
ing to the city, silenced. On the 14th of September, our 
forces, fighting hand to hand, entered the city. 

15. When did Scott commence his march towards the city of Mexico ? 
What battles were fought between this place and the city "? How large was 
the Mexican army, and how large the American ? When did our troops 
enter the city ? 



192 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

16. Here a terrific fire was poured upon them from 
batteries stationed in the streets, and from the house-tops, 
until night. During the night, Santa Anna left the city. 
The great ^laza^ in front of the cathedral and palace, was 
filled with our soldiers at daylight the next morning, and as 
the evening sun gilded the house-tops of the conquered city, 
the "stars and stripes" floated triumphantly over the capital 
of the Mexican republic. But where were the ten thousand 
gallant men who had welcomed Scott at Puebla? The 
bloody fields they passed over on their route to the city of 
Mexico, were the final resting-places of three thousand of 
these brave men. 

17. No important battle took place after our troops had 
taken possession of the city of Mexico. A treaty of peace 
between Mexico and the United States, was signed February 
2d, 1848. By this war the United States gained a vast 
amount of territory, (590,000 square miles) stretching from 
the Gulf of Mexico westward to the Pacific ocean, embracing 
a large portion of California, rich in mines of gold. The 
United States agreed to pay Mexico fifteen millions of dollars, 
and released the Mexicans from all previous claims. 

18. Good people throughout the union hailed this treaty 
of peace with joy. They considered any amount of territory 
or national glory, gained at the fearful price of blood and 

16. Who gained the victory ? How many American soldiers were lost 
on the route at the different battles ? 

17. When was a treaty of peace signed 1 How many square miles did 
the United States gain by the Mexican war ? 



tayloe's administeation. 193 

human life, as dearly purchased. Fleets, armies, and the 
untold miseries of even a victorious war, add not so much to 
the strength and prosperity of any people as the unnumbered 
blessings which cluster about a nation in time of happy 
peace. 

The discussion whether California should be admitted as a 
slave state, soon caused much angry debate, and many feared 
that great trouble and dissension would arise in our happy 
union by the addition of this new territory. 

19. In March, 1849, General Zachary Taylor of Louisiana, 
was elected President of the United States, and Millard 
Fillmore of New York, was elected Yice-President. 

In June of this year, Mr. Polk, the ex-President, died. 
His last moments were calm and happy. 

20. Shortly after the termination of the war with Mexico, 
a workman, digging in the soil of California, discovered some 
shining particles glittering in the sunlight. He was little 
dreaming of the grand discovery soon to oj^en upon him and 
the whole world, wdien the first spade full of what then 
seemed common dust was carelessly turned aside. Another 
and another shovel full of glittering dust at last attracted the 
workman's eye. This glittering dust was California gold. 
Gold in California was now the news of the day. East and 
west, north and south, the exciting story traveled as if on the 
electric telegraph. 

18. What is said about the admission of California as a slave state into 
the union 1 19. Who was the next President 1 20. What was discovered 
in California 1 

9 



194 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 




Gold Diggers in California. 

21. The poor, down-trodden thousands in Europe, hurried 
to the land of gold. The swarthy Asiatics also came by 
thousands, while from every state in the union, from teeming 
city and town and hamlet, on poured the tide of emigration 
to the new land of promise. In a very short time, a mighty 
state sprung up on the shores of the Pacific. Cities and 
towns seemed to rise and fall as if by magic, for in a few 
hours, destructive fires often threatened to burn a whole city. 

Many were made rich by the discovery of this valuable 
metal. Thousands, less successful, returned home with emjpty 
pockets and broken constitutions, while thousands, still more 
unfortunate, sunk homeless, penniless, and friendless, on the 
golden soil for their bed, where they breathed their last 



DEATH OF GENERAL TAYLOR. 195 

breath far away from tlie happy and peaceful land of their 
birth. 

22. San Francisco is the principal city in California. Its 
harbor is one of the best in the world, and is now constantly 
crowded with shipping. Millions of dollars in gold from 
California have been coined at the United States mint, 
and sent abroad, since the poor laborer turned aside the first 
spade full of shining dust in 1848. 

23. In August, 1819, a constitution was formed, in which 
slavery was prohibited. The people soon after asked that 
California should be admitted into the union as a state. Then 
followed a long and angry discussion all over the states. The 
slave holding states wished to have California admitted as a 
slave state, and the free states held an opposite view. Some 
of the states even w^ent so far as to threaten to separate 
from the glorious sisterhood of states, if California came in 
as a free state. 

21. In the midst of the strife, the alarming intelligence of 
the dangerous illness of General Taylor startled the nation, 
and instantly the contest ceased for the time. Tlie illness of 
the President increased raj)idly, and on the evening of the 
9th of July, the good and noble old man breathed his last in 
the President's House. 

22. What is said of San Francisco ? 

23. What is said of the constitution the Californians formed 1 

24. What happened in the midst of the strife about the admission of 
California ] 

25. What were General Taylor's last words ? 



196 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

25. His last words were, " I am willing to die / / heme 
done my dutyP General Taylor's services in the armj, his 
good sense and honesty, his firmness and integrity, had en- 
deared him to the grateful hearts of the American people. 
Grief bowed their heads, and with saddened hearts they for 
the second time, in a brief space, followed the inanimate 
form of a Chief Magistrate to the quiet grave. 

26. Mr. Fillmore, the Yice-President, now occupied the 
vacant presidential chair. Immediately the strife and fierce 
debate in the senate re- commenced. At last some of the 
contested bills were passed, but others, equally important, 
were still in debate. One bill was passed which abolished the 
slave trade in the District of Columbia. Another bill, called 
the Fugitive Slave Bill, was passed, after much discussion 
of no very pleasant nature. By this law, a runaway slave, 
who shall take refuge in the free states, is re-captured and 
returned to his master. 

27. On the 31st of March, 1850, Hon. J. C. Calhoim died 
in Washington. He was one of the great men of the nation, 
noted for his oratory, and a man of strong and highly culti- 
vated mind. 

At the next presidential election, General Franklin Pierce 
of New Hampshire, was chosen President, and "Wm. P. King 
of South Carolina, "Vice-President. 

What is said of General Taylor ? 

26. Who now became President 1 What bills were passed in the Senate ? 
What is said of the Fugitive Slave Bill ? 

27. What is said of John C. Calhoun % 



DEATH OF CLAY AND WEBSTER. 197 

28. In 1852, tlae nation was called upon to mourn the loss 
of one of lier noblest sons. The voice of Henry Clay, whose 
eloquent tones had so often rung through the land, was silent 
in death. Scarcely a year rolled away, when the nation was 
startled with the intelligence that another of her great men 
had been called to his final home. Daniel Webster, whose 
great mind had commanded the respect and admiration of 
the world, was consigned to the tomb almost within sight 
of the spot where the pilgrim fathers first landed. 




198 



HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 



GOJ^CLUSION. 




UR country's early history is involved in no 
obscurity. It does not commence so far back 
as to be enshrouded in the darkness which 
envelopes the origin of many of the na- 
tions of the old world. Each step of its 
wondrous jD^ogress, from the time after the voyage 
of Columbus, the first rude cabin of the white man 
was reared on our shores to the present, can be 
clearly and distinctly traced. 
In the preceding pages, we have traced that progress 
through the rapidly changing scenes of its eventful career. 
We have seen, now and then, a solitary ship of a few hun- 
dred tons burthen, braving the storms of the ocean, and here 
and there, scattered along the Atlantic coast, a little settle- 
ment. Beyond them stretched the dark forests of an almost 
boundless wilderness, while at their feet dashed the waves of 
a broad ocean, whose waters were unwhitened by the sails of 
commerce. 

Yet a few more years pass away, and we see that vast 
wilderness brought under the sway of civilization — towns 
and cities springing up in every direction, and rich fields of 
waving grain and orchards of luscious fruit, telling of the 



CONCLUSION. 199 



bounteous productions of the soil. On the soil, where but a 
short time ago no white man was to be seen, now dwell in 
peace and plenty a population of three millions, men inured 
to toil, founders of a mighty nation, and mothers of that 
strict integrity and purity of character, which made their 
children the heroes of an heroic age. 

And now events crowd each other in rapid succession. 
The dark and terrible scenes of the revolution move before 
us. The land is darkened by the clouds of war, but gradually 
as the clouds roll away, we behold, not thirteen subject colo- 
nies, but thirteen emancipated states, free and independent. 
Scarcely eighty years have passed away before that infant 
nation stands foremost in the rank of nations, consisting not 
of thirteen states, but thirty one, washed by two great oceans, 
and teeming with a population of twenty millions. Its ocean 
waters are whitened by the sails of commerce, bringing the 
rich products of every clime into its ample' storehouses. On 
its rivers and lakes are heard the pantings of steam ; over 
cultivated fields, through dark forests, along the verge of 
frowning precipices, the steam-car rushes along its iron track 
with fearful rapidity. Manufactories are scattered all over 
the land, and everywhere are seen indications of happiness 
and prosperity. 

What is the cause of this unparalleled prosperity ? Why 
is it that our nation should thus startle the world with its 
rapid growth, its bold and daring acts, and its strength ? 

The peculiar position in which the early settlers of this 
country were placed, developed all their energy of character 



200 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

and all their strength of mind. They were comj^elled to toil 
early and late for their daily bread. In their log-houses 
their furniture, much of it the work of their own hands, was 
of the plainest kind, and their food, cooked by the hands of 
wives and daughters, of the most simple character. 

Labor was not then considered a disgrace as some foolishly 
think it at the present day, whose fathers have grown rich 
by honest toil. Cowardice could form no part of their cha- 
racter, for they were surrounded by savage foes and often 
compelled to light for their lives. Thus toiling on from day 
to day, surrounded by dangers, they felt and acknowledged 
their dependence on God. Far away from the workshops 
and the luxuries of the old world, their necessities compelled 
them to develop the resources of the soil, and to tax their 
ingenuity to supply many of the comforts of life. 

A vast continent was before them, to be reclaimed from 
its wilderness state, and themselves and families to be guarded 
by their own industry against future want. Their children 
nursed a spirit of freedom and independence in their mother's 
milk ; as they played beneath the old trees and gazed upon 
the towering mountains and the dark forests, and saw around 
them everywhere the beauty and grandeur of nature, there 
was impressed on their young minds, aye, blended with their 
very being, lessons never to be forgotten. 

Feeling the importance of a general diffusion of intelli- 
gence and education, they made careful provisions for learn- 
ing, and laid the foundations of institutions whose blessing's 
have been enjoyed by succeeding generations. 



CONCLUSION. 201 



In 1637, a college was located at Newtown, Massachnsetts, 
the name of wliich place lias since been changed to Cam- 
bridge. It was named after Mr. John Harvard, a minister of 
Charlestown, who bequeathed nearly four thousand dollars to 
the institution. 

In 1692, W^illiam and Mary's college, in Yirginia, was 
founded by the sovereigns whose name it bears. Yale col- 
lege, in Connecticut, was commenced in lYOO. The college 
was begun at Saybrook, but in 1717, it was removed to ]^ew 
Haven. It was named after Elihu Yale, its principal bene- 
factor. The college at Princeton, 'New Jersey, called i!Tassau 
Hall, was founded in 1738. 

At the south, edacation was more particularly confined to 
the higher classes, but at the north, especially in New Eng- 
land, provisions were made for the education of all. Li 
Connecticut, every town numbering fifty families, was ob- 
liged to maintain a good school, and every county town, a 
grammar-school. Large tracts of land were appropriated for 
the support of schools, and every family was compelled by 
law to give their children instruction. 

Here, then, we see the cause of the success and prosperity 
of our country. Children inherited from their parents a 
spirit of self-reliance, and a fearless energy which would be 
daunted by no difiiculty, and would allow no labor, however 
arduous, to turn them from their purpose ; and when these 
energies were rightly directed by the proper cultivation of 
the mind, the results were such as to astonish the world. 

The youthful Franklin, in his brother's printing-office, 



202 HISTOEY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

toiled early and late, and yet in the midst of his labors he 
allowed no opportunity to escape for acquiring knowledge. 
At length he resolved to go to Philadelphia. He arrived 
there poor, but determined to succeed. Being hungry, 
he bought some small loaves of bread. Giving one to a 
poor woman, he stowed away one under each arm, and 
eating another, he walked along one of the principal 
streets. 

You will say such a man ought to have succeeded. He 
did succeed, and gradually worked his way up until he be- 
came one of the greatest men of the age, and one of the 
most profound philosophers the world had ever seen. 

At this time, but very little was known about electricity, 
yet Dr. Franklin believed that the electric spark, produced 
by the Ley den jar, was of the same character as atmospheric 
lightning. To test this idea, he constructed a kite, by stretch- 
ing a large silk handkerchief over two sticks in the form of 
a cross. On the appearance of a storm, he went into a 
field and raised the kite. Soon a dense cloud passed over 
the place where he was, apparently charged with lightning. 
Touching his knuckle to a key he had attached to the cord, 
sparks were produced in abundance. This experiment took 
place in 1752. In accordance with this theory of electricity, 
lightning-rods were constructed, which serve to convey the 
electric fluid to the ground, without injury to the buildings 
on which they were placed. 

Dr. Franklin was at one time minister to France. Here, 
where his society was courted by kings and the great men of 



CONCLUSION. 203 



the earth, he maintained his republican style of dress and his 
simplicity of character. 

This simplicity of character and fearless energy were cha- 
racteristic of the great men of the revolution. John Adams, 
when President of the United States, met one day, when 
riding out with a friend, a poor negro. The negro uncovered 
his head and bowed. Mr. Adams did the same. Said the 
friend, " I never expected to see the President of the United 
States take off his hat to a black man !" The President 
replied, " he bowed to me first, and you certainly would not 
wish the President of the United States to be less polite than 
a black man." 

It has been said " that necessity is the mother of inven- 
tion." This certainly was true in our own country. You 
know that a large proportion of all the cotton used in the 
world is raised in the southern states. Growing the cotton 
is a vast source of wealth to a portion of our country, and 
manufacturing it into a variety of fabrics, gives employment 
to a great number of persons. 

At one time the process of preparing cotton for market 
was so tedious, that but very little was raised. The seeds 
had to be picked out by hand, and this was a very slow 
process. Eli Whitney was one day engaged in sawing a 
board, and on the board was some cotton ; as the teeth 
of the saw caught it and drew it through the cut, the seeds 
were entirely cleaned out. Whitney threw down his saw 
and thought about what he had seen. The result of his 
thinking was the construction, on the same principle of the 



204: HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

saw drawing the cotton tlirougli a board, of the Cotton Gin, 
which is in use at the present time. This was in 1794. By 
this gin, cotton could be cleaned with great rapidity. Nearly 
all great discoveries have been made by persons observing 
small things. Thus all should cultivate habits of thought 
and observation. 

There is no civilized country in the world which can compare 
with America in its towering mountains and vast lakes and 
rivers. On the east a vast ocean separates it from the coun- 
tries of the old world. This ocean and these great rivers, 
extending hundreds of miles into the interior, were at one 
time only traversed by sailing vessels. When there were 
adverse winds or storms, the voyages were long and tedious. 
Sometimes persons were two or three weeks in going from 
'New York to Albany. Some more sure and rapid mode of 
communication was necessary. 

The use of steam to propel boats, early engaged the atten- 
tion of several Americans. Fitch constructed a boat which 
was propelled through the water at the rate of four miles an 
hour. Kobert Fulton, another American, in 1803, launched 
a small boat on the river Seine in Paris. The boat was pro- 
pelled by steam, and the experiment was entirely successful. 

Fulton now returned to America, and constructed another 
boat to run on the Hudson river. The boat was one hundred 
feet long, twelve feet wide, and seven feet deep. Almost 
every one laughed at Fulton, and called his boat " Fulton's 
folly." But Fulton toiled on, determined to succeed. And 
he did succeed. At length the engine was placed in the 



CONCLUSION. 205 



boat. In the summer of 1807, everything was ready for the 
trial. A large crowd assembled on the wharf to laugh at 
Fulton and enjoy his defeat. Slowly the boat ^moved from 
the dock into the middle of the stream, and then stopped. 
Fulton found something out of order in the machinery, and 
immediately remedied it. Again the boat moved, and slowly, 
yet strongly, plowed its way through the waters. Fulton's 
triumph was complete. The time to Albany was thirty-six 
hours. 'Now the same distance is accomplished by magnificent 
steamboats, four hundred feet long, in nine hours and a half. 

What a change in about forty years ! Now magnificent 
steamers ply on all our rivers, and vast steamships cross the 
ocean in every direction. Cars, drawn by powerful steam- 
engines, running on iron tracks, traverse the country in 
almost every direction, at the rate of thirty miles an hour. 

But even this speed was not fast enough for our go-ahead 
people ; and the lightning, first drawn from the clouds by 
Franklin with his little kite, must be made to do the bidding 
of man. 

For many years, electricity had been used as a means of 
communicating signals from one place to another. In 1837, 
Professor Morse of the United States patented an electro- 
magnetic telegraph, which he claims to have invented in 
1832. This was the first telegraph which recorded its mes- 
sage, and thus dispensed with the uncertain attention of an 
assistant. ISTow, by means of the telegraph, w^e can send a 
message thousands of miles in a second of time. Standing 
in New York, the lightning, generated by galvanic batteries, 



206 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

conveys our thouglits along the iron wires of the telegraph 
to Boston, Albany, Cincinnati, or wherever those wires m^j 
run. How wonderful ! 

We have not space to tell of the innumerable impro^^e- 
ments which have been made in this country in every depa) t- 
ment of life. In the arts and sciences, and in mechanical 
skill, the world is indebted to the United States for some of 
the greatest triumphs of the age. Here, too, in our young 
country, have lived and died some of the purest patriots, 
some of the most profound statesmen and eloquent orators, 
the world has ever seen. 

May our country go on in peace and prosperity. As year 
after year rolls away, and the boundaries of civilization are 
increased, it should be the prayer of every son and daughter 
of America that no sectional strife may dismember our union, 
but that God, who watched over us in infancy as a nation, 
may still guide and direct us. 



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